Rearview mirror assembly with utility functions

ABSTRACT

An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a reflective element, a housing or casing supporting the reflective element, and the casing including a storage space. The storage space provides storage for at least one accessory and for storing the accessory in the location easily accessible by an occupant of the vehicle whereby the accessory can be inserted into and removed from the storage space for use by an occupant of the vehicle. The storage space may take the form of a recess provided in a top wall of the casing, a recessed portion provided in a front wall, back wall, or end wall of the casing. In one form, the recessed portion houses a pendent accessory which is movable between a retracted position within the recess to an extended position for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle. For example, the pendent accessory may include a reflective element or a display element, for displaying information to an occupant of the vehicle.

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a rearview assembly and, morespecifically to an interior rearview mirror assembly for use in vehiclesincorporating utility functions, such as storage space for holding orhousing various accessories.

[0002] Until recently, rearview mirror assemblies have been usedprimarily for rear vision. More recently, electronic, electric andvarious additional functional features, however, have been added to therearview mirror assembly, for example map reading lights, reflectiveelements with displays, controls for actuating garage doors, or thelike.

[0003] With the advent of electro-optic mirrors such as electrochromicmirrors, a new generation of rearview mirrors has afforded thepossibility of a slim reflector package. As a day/night actuatormechanism is no longer needed in such mirrors, the size of thereflective element assembly is defined be the thickness of theelectrochromic mirror element and by its associated electronics.

[0004] In addition, more recently, drivers and occupants of the vehicleengage in more and more non-driving activities, such as telephoneconversations, note taking, remote transactions, and the like. As aresult, many of these activities take the driver's attention away fromthe front of the vehicle because the activity involves the driverlooking to locations in the vehicle remote from the windshield.Furthermore, while note pad holders have been devised to attach to thewindshield, by suction cups or the like, these holders often hamper orobstruct the view through the windshield and may come loose or detach.As a result, the driver of the vehicle may have an obstructed view.Also, frequently a driver or vehicle occupant may remove eyeglasses orsunglasses or the like when exiting the vehicle, and seeks a storageplace where they can be left and readily found.

[0005] Consequently, there is a need to optimize the available space inthe vehicle for storing and locating objects and accessories, such assunglasses, flashlights, map holders, writing surfaces, pen holders andthe like, and, furthermore, providing accessories in a location that iseasy to reach but which does not cause the driver of the vehicle toredirect his or her eyes far from the front of the vehicle, thusminimizing or eliminating the driver's distraction. In addition, it isdesirable that the space which is used to store or locate these objectsand accessories does not obstruct the driver's view.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention provides an interior rearview mirrorassembly, which includes a mount for attachment of the assembly to awindshield or to a header portion of the vehicle interior, and one ormore storage spaces for storing, locating or holding objects and/oraccessories.

[0007] In one form of the invention, an interior rearview mirrorassembly includes a casing or housing, a reflective element positionedin the casing, and the casing including a storage space. The storagespace provides storage for at least one accessory and for storing theaccessory in a location which is easily accessible by an occupant of thevehicle.

[0008] In one aspect, the storage space is defined by a recess or pocketprovided on or in the casing, for example a recess or pocket provided inan upper wall of the casing. The storage space may comprise acompartment or bin, such as is defined by the recess or pocket or thelike. In further aspects, the storage space comprises an elongatedtrough-shape body for supporting an accessory, such as at least one of apair of spectacles, a writing instrument, and coins. In other forms, thecasing includes an upper wall and an opening in the upper wall. Astorage bin, preferably a removable storage bin, is positioned as aninsert in the opening with the insert forming the recess and providingthe storage space. In another embodiment, the walls of the bin aredefined by the wall of the mirror assembly casing itself, such as formedby molding.

[0009] In other forms, the casing includes a recess which extends into abottom wall of the casing for storing a pendent accessory. For example,the pendent accessory may include a reflective element or may be adisplay screen, such as a liquid crystal display screen, or may be awriting pad or a keyboard. Preferably, the pendent accessory includes ahousing, which supports the accessory. In further aspects, the housingis supported from the mirror assembly by a support. Preferably, theaccessory housing is pivotally mounted to the support to permitrepositioning of the accessory for viewing by or access to an occupantof the vehicle, such as by a driver or a passenger.

[0010] In other aspects, the pendent accessory includes a displayscreen, such as a touch screen, which displays information for anoccupant of the vehicle. In preferred form, the pendent accessoryincludes a housing which supports the display screen. The housing issupported from the mirror assembly by a support, with the housing beingpivotally mounted to the support to permit repositioning of the displayscreen. Further, the pendent accessory may include a circuit board forsupporting electronics which display information on the display screen.

[0011] In other aspects, the pendent accessory is mounted for extensionand retraction into the recess. Such pendent accessory may be mountedfor extension and/or retraction from the casing that houses thereflective element, or from the mirror support arm that supports themirror casing and about which the mirror casing is pivotably moveable,or from the mirror mount where the interior rearview mirror attaches tothe vehicle such as to a button adhered to the windshield or to anattachment point in the header region of the roof-area of the vehicle.The pendent accessory housing includes an outer surface which generallyaligns with the outer surface of the casing when the housing is moved toits retracted position within the casing.

[0012] In other aspects, the casing includes an accessory attachmentmember for releasably holding an accessory. For example, the accessoryattachment member may comprise a clip or retainer with generallyresilient or spring-like arm for receiving and releasably retaining anobject such as a pen, a tool or the like. Such attachment member maycomprise a generally C-shaped clip for releasably holding a work piece.Optionally, the accessory attachment member is integrally molded withthe casing. For example, the accessory attachment member may be providedat the bottom wall of the casing or provided on a forward facing(relative to the direction of travel of the vehicle) wall of the casingso that, when the interior mirror assembly is mounted in the vehicle, awork piece (such as for example, a writing instrument such as a pencilor a pen or a tool or a utility instrument such as a Swiss Army knife)is held to the mirror housing at its rear, and between the outer wall ofthe mirror housing and the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.

[0013] In yet a further aspect, the casing includes a recess formed in aforward facing side of the casing. A dockable assembly such as aflashlight, phone, or pager is supported in the recess and is removablymounted to the casing such that an occupant of the vehicle can quicklyand easily remove the dockable assembly for use independently of therearview mirror assembly.

[0014] In further aspects, the casing includes an upper wall, a lowerwall, and opposed end walls. A recess extends into one of the end wallsthereby defining a storage space. The recess extends between the upperand lower walls to define a slotted recess which supports an accessoryholder. The accessory holder is slidably positioned and releasably heldin the recess. Preferably, the holder includes a body with upper andlower walls, an end wall, and a back wall. The end wall inserts into therecess when the holder is positioned in the recess. At least one of theupper wall, lower wall, and an edge of the back wall is aligned tofollow contours of the casing when the holder is positioned in therecess.

[0015] In another form of the invention, an interior rearview mirrorassembly includes a casing or reflective element supported in the casingand a support for mounting the casing to a windshield mounting button.The support preferably includes a break-away bracket or mount whichincludes a storage space for supporting at least one accessory thereon.

[0016] In one aspect, the bracket includes a planar mounting surface forsupporting the accessory thereon. Optionally, the bracket may include anaccessory attachment member for holding a work piece. In furtheraspects, the bracket includes a bottom edge, with the accessoryattachment member being positioned at the bottom edge.

[0017] Advantages provided by the present invention include a highmounted storage location which is easily accessible to an occupant ofthe vehicle. In addition, by incorporating the storage space into aninterior rearview mirror assembly the distraction caused by retrievalfrom or placement into the storage space is minimized as the effort oraction to retrieve or store is equivalent to the action of adjusting theposition of the rearview. Further, the location of the storage space isnot readily discernible from the outside of the vehicle enhancing thesecurity of the vehicle.

[0018] These and other objects, advantages, purposes, and features ofthe invention will become more apparent from the study of the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019]FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the rearview mirror assemblyfor vehicles of the present invention showing an interior rearviewmirror assembly in a viewing position in a front windshield of avehicle;

[0020]FIG. 2 is a sectional end view of the assembly of FIG. 1 takenalong line II-II of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 1, with portions broken away, illustrating a pendentaccessory in an extended position;

[0022]FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the mirror assembly of FIG.3 illustrating the pendent accessory moved to a second orientation;

[0023]FIG. 5 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the mirrorassembly of FIG. 4, with the pendent accessory positioned in a thirdorientation;

[0024]FIG. 6 is an enlarged end perspective view of the mirror assemblyof FIG. 5;

[0025]FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of FIG. 1 illustrating thependent accessory of FIG. 3 in a partially retracted position within themirror assembly housing;

[0026]FIG. 8 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of theexterior rearview mirror assembly of FIG. 1, with the pendent accessoryfully retracted within the housing;

[0027]FIG. 8A is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1 illustrating therearview mirror assembly of FIG. 1 with a display screen adjacent thereflective element;

[0028]FIG. 8B is a view similar to FIG. 8A illustrating the rearviewmirror assembly with a pair of display screens;

[0029]FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an interior rearview mirror similarto FIG. 1 illustrating the mirror housing incorporating a flashlightassembly;

[0030]FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the mirror assembly of FIG.9;

[0031]FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the mirror of FIG. 9;

[0032]FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the mirror assembly ofFIG. 9;

[0033]FIG. 13 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the mirrorsubassembly of FIG. 9;

[0034]FIG. 14 is a partial rear exploded perspective view of the mirrorassembly of FIG. 9;

[0035]FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of therearview mirror assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a recessed storage spacefor supporting or holding accessories;

[0036]FIG. 15A is a partial fragmentary view taken along line XVA-XVA ofFIG. 15;

[0037]FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of an insert module forinserting into the mirror assembly casing of FIG. 15 defining therecessed storage space;

[0038]FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of a fourth embodiment of themirror assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a storage space within the mirrorassembly housing;

[0039]FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII ofFIG. 17;

[0040]FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a fifth embodiment of theinterior rearview mirror assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a flashlightassembly module mounted to a first storage space and a second storagespace with a clip for holding an accessory and a third storage space forholding other accessories;

[0041]FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of a sixth embodiment of themirror assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a work piece holder and a writingpad holder incorporated into the housing of the rearview mirror assemblyand, further, with two map or dash board light assemblies;

[0042]FIG. 21 is a front exploded perspective view of a seventhembodiment of a mirror assembly similar to FIG. 1 illustrating a slottedstorage space for holding an accessory holder, such as a writing padholder;

[0043]FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of theinterior rearview mirror assembly incorporating a pad and pencil holderinto a mirror mounting bracket;

[0044]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the paper and pencil holder ofFIG. 22;

[0045]FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment ofthe paper and pencil holder;

[0046]FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of a ninth embodiment of therearview mirror assembly of the present invention illustrating a storagespace for holding and dispensing coins, a 12-volt supply, and an airfreshener dispenser;

[0047]FIG. 26 is a front view of another embodiment of the interiorrearview mirror assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1-8;

[0048]FIG. 27 is a top perspective partial fragmentary view of theinterior rearview mirror assembly of FIG. 26;

[0049]FIG. 28 is a partial front view of a third embodiment of theinterior rearview mirror assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 illustratinga pivotally mounted pendent accessory;

[0050]FIG. 29 is an enlarged perspective view of the pendent accessoryhousing of FIG. 28;

[0051]FIG. 30 is another embodiment of the rearview mirror assemblyillustrated in FIGS. 15, 15A, and 16;

[0052]FIG. 30A is a forward elevation view of the mirror assembly ofFIG. 30;

[0053]FIG. 31 is a partial rear exploded perspective view of a secondembodiment of the mirror assembly of FIGS. 9-14;

[0054]FIG. 32 is a partial rear exploded perspective view of a thirdembodiment of the interior rearview mirror assembly of FIGS. 9-14; and

[0055]FIG. 33 is a partial rear exploded perspective view of a thirdembodiment of the mirror assembly of FIGS. 9-14.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Referring to FIG. 1, the numeral 10 generally designates a firstembodiment of the interior rearview mirror assembly of the presentinvention. Assembly 10 is adapted to be releasably secured or coupled tothe front windshield W of a vehicle in a conventional manner.Alternatively, assembly 10 can be adapted to secure or couple to theheader portion of the vehicle above the windshield. Assembly 10 includesa mirror casing or housing 12 and a reflective element 14 which issupported in or on casing 12 in a conventional manner. Referring to FIG.2, in the illustrated embodiment, mirror assembly 10 is mounted towindshield W by a support arm 16 and a break-away mounting bracket ormirror mount 17 which releasably mounts to a conventional mirror buttonon windshield W. Preferably support arm 16 is a conventional double balltype support arm which permits multi axis positioning of casing 12 aboutbracket 17. It should be understood that any suitable type of supportarm may be employed for supporting mirror subassembly 10 within thevehicle, for example a single ball mount support or the like. Inaddition, break-away mounting bracket 17 may take one of several forms,such as those described and shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,820,097;5,615,857; 5,330,149; 5,100,095; or 4,936,533; the disclosures of whichare incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

[0057] Mirror casing or housing 12 is preferably molded from a resinousplastic material, such as an engineering polymer material, for example afiber reinforced nylon plastic or an ABS plastic, or a polypropylene orother similar thermoplastic or thermoset materials. Mirror casing 12preferably includes a front bezel 12 a, which extends around a rearwardfacing opening 12 a′ (FIG. 2) of casing 12 and around a peripheralportion of reflective element 14. As used in this application, the termsrearward facing and forward facing are used to define directionsrelative to a vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted in thevehicle. Rearward facing means the object is facing to the rear of thevehicle towards the driver and occupants of the vehicle. Forward facingmeans that it is facing forward of the vehicle towards the windshieldand so is typically (but not always) not substantially visible to thedriver. Bezel 12 a, which is formed separately from casing 12, ispreferably molded from a resinous plastic material similar to casing 12.It should be understood that casing 12 may include a retaining rim inlieu of separate bezel 12 a.

[0058] Rear surface 13 of casing 12 includes a recessed area 13 a inwhich is disposed a mounting boss 15 and ball member 15 a on whichsupport arm 16 is mounted to enable the mirror assembly 10 to bereleasably secured via bracket 17 to the vehicle windshield.Alternately, casing 12 may include a socket for receiving a ball memberfrom support arm 16. Reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 4,930,742 forone example of a preferred break-away mounting. Another example of sucha coupling is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,100,095 toHaan et al. An alternate method of securing support 16 is by attachingsupport 16 to a header, for example of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,487,522; 5,615,857; or 5,671,996; which are commonly assigned toDonnelly Corporation, and which are herein incorporated by reference intheir entireties. U.S. Pat. No. 5,487,522 discloses a mirror supportbracket and illustrates a bracket which can be used on either a headeror windshield mounted mirror assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, aconventional mounting button is adhered to the windshield surface by alayer of conventionally known metal to glass adhesives such as polyvinylbutyral available from Monsanto Company of St. Louis, Mo. or by asilicone adhesive or the like.

[0059] Reflective element 14 preferably comprises a variable reflectanceelement, such as an electro-optic element. In most preferred form,reflective element 14 comprises an electrochromic mirror element, forexample one of several types of electrochromic mirror elements, such asan element of the electrochemichromic type which is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,140,455, or the solid-state type such as disclosed in, forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,879, U.S. Pat. No. 5,910,854, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/238,521, filed Mar. 5, 1994, byVaraprassad et al. now U.S. Pat. No. ______, all commonly assigned withthe present application to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich., thedisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. Other suitable electrochromic elements are described in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,151,816 and 5,142,40, the disclosures of which areincorporated by reference herein.

[0060] Mirror assembly 10 may house a plurality of electrical orelectronic devices, such as antennas, including global positioningsystem (GPS) or cellular phone antennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,971,552, a communication module, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,798,688, displays such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240 or inU.S. pending application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, andcopending application entitled “REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY WITH ADDEDFEATURE MODULAR DISPLAY” filed Nov. 24, 1999, by Timothy Skiver et al.,attorney Docket No. DON01 P-702, blind spot detection systems, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,929,786 or 5,786,772, transmitters and/orreceivers, such as garage door openers, a digital network, such asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575, a high/low head lamp controller,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,093, a memory mirror system,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,176, a hands-free phoneattachment, a video device for internal cabin surveillance and/or videotelephone function, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and5,877,897, a remote keyless entry receiver, map lights, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,938,321; 5,813,745; 5,820,245; 5,673,994;5,649,756; or 5,178,448, microphones, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, 09/396,179, filedSep. 14, 1999, and 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, speakers, a compass,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,212, seat occupancy detector, atrip computer, an ONSTAR System or the like, with all of the referencedpatents and applications commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation, thedisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, mirror assembly 10 preferably includes acircuit board 18, which includes electronic or electrical circuitry foractuating the variable reflectance of reflective element 14 and foroperating other electrical or electronic functions supported in rearviewassembly 10. Circuit board 18 may support, for example, light emittingdiodes (LED's) for illuminating indicia on display elements 12 b, 12 cor 12 c′ provided on chin of bezel 12 a or display areas provided onreflective element 14, or map or dash board lights 540, 542 (shown inFIG. 20). Circuit board 18 may be independently supported fromreflective element 14 or in casing 12 or may be mounted to reflectiveelement's rear surface 14 a on a separate plate or may be directlyadhered to the rear surface by a suitable adhesive. Reference is made toU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,671,996 and 5,820,245, the disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Though theillustrated embodiment illustrates the displays and/or buttons providedat the chin of the mirror housing bezel 12 a, it should be understoodthat one or more of these buttons or displays may be located elsewhereon the mirror assembly or separately in a module, for example of thetype disclosed in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726entitled “REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY INCORPORATING VEHICLE INFORMATIONDISPLAY”, filed by Jonathon E. DeLine and Niall R. Lynam, which isassigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich., the disclosure ofwhich is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 3, casing 12 includes a storage space which isprovided by a cavity or recess 20 formed in bottom wall 22 of casing 12.Mounted in cavity 20 is a pendent accessory 24, which is preferablymounted in cavity 20 for movement between a fully retracted position(FIG. 8) in which a lower surface 24 a of pendent accessory 24 generallyfollows the contour of casing 12 and is preferably substantially flushwith a lower outer surface 22 a of lower wall 22 of casing 12. In theillustrated embodiment, pendent accessory 24 is mounted in cavity 20 onan extendible support arm 26 so that dependent accessory 24 may be movedbetween its retracted and extended positions. For example, support arm26 may comprise an extendable jack arm or spring-loaded telescoping armor the like such as is known in the art. As best seen in FIG. 6, supportarm 26 includes a ball joint 34 which extends into a receiving structure36, for example a socket structure, provided in housing 28. In thismanner, display accessory 24 is pivotally mounted to support arm 26 topermit repositioning of the display accessory about ball 34. Thus,pendent accessory 24 can be repositioned for easy access or viewing bythe driver of the vehicle or by a passenger of the vehicle other thanthe driver. While in the illustrated embodiment pendent accessory 24 isillustrated as being positioned offset from the center of mirror case,it should be understood that pendent accessory may be centrally locatedor located on a side of the case. Also, while illustrated in the Figuresas an accessory that extends downwards from the bottom of the rearviewmirror assembly (i.e. towards the vehicle floor) when mounted in thevehicle, a pendent accessory can extend upwards from the top of themirror assembly (i.e. towards the vehicle roof area) or sideways (i.e.towards the vehicle side) from either end of casing 12.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 3-8, pendent accessory 24 includes a housing28 and an element 30 which is positioned in a rearward facing opening 32of housing 28. Element 30 may comprise a reflective element or mirrorfor use by an occupant of the vehicle as a vanity mirror or as a mirrorto view rear seat passengers (such as a flat, compound curvature,aspheric or convex mirror reflector) such as a baby in a baby seat.Alternately, pendent accessory 24 can form a viewing screen for a babyminder system, such as the vehicle interior monitoring system describedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,877,897 and 5,760,962 or the rear vision systemdescribed in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/361,814 filedJul. 27, 1999 and Ser. No. 09/199,907 filed Nov. 25, 1998, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. P-783) filedNov. 4, 1999, entitled “VEHICLE INTERIOR MIRROR ASSEMBLY” to PatrickHeslin and Niall R. Lynam, all of which are incorporated by reference intheir entireties herein. An interior surveillance system permits thedriver of the vehicle to observe behavior or the activities of babies orchildren or other passengers seated in the rear seat. This is especiallyadvantageous when the child or baby is in a rearward facing car seat,where the child or baby would ordinarily not be visible. For example, acamera, such as a CMOS or CCD camera, can be mounted to view the rearseat area of the vehicle so that the driver can view what is occurring,such as in a rear seat mounted baby seat or with a rear seat passengersuch as children. Preferably, to enable viewing of the rear seatoccupant or occupants even by night, the target field of view of thecamera may be illuminated in a manner that provides adequate visibilityfor the camera to discern what is occurring in the rear seat in adarkened vehicle cabin but not illuminating in a manner that causesglare, distraction, and/or discomfort to any vehicle occupants,including the driver and/or rear seat passengers. For example, such arear seat monitoring camera illumination is preferably achieved usingdirected low level non-incandescent light sources, such as lightemitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting material,electro-illuminescent sources, and the like, and most preferably suchnon-incandescent sources are low power and are directed low intensitysources, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,321 and copendingapplication entitled “INTERIOR MIRROR ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLEINCORPORATING A SOLID-STATE LIGHT SOURCE”, Ser. No. 09/287,926, filedApr. 7, 1999, which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties. The baby minder camera may be mounted as a part of therearview mirror assembly and, most preferably, may be mounted as a partof a header, including a front header of a roof or a rear header of aroof. It may be desirable to mount a baby minder camera to the rearheader of a roof when it is desirable to view rear facing child supportseats. Most preferably, a plurality of at least two, more preferably atleast four, and most preferably at least six LEDs (or similar low level,directed, low-current light sources such as electroluminescent sourcesand organic light emitting sources) are mounted with a camera (such asto form a ring around the camera) with the light projected from theindividual LEDs directed to be coincident with the camera field of viewand to illuminate the target area desired to be viewed. The LEDs beingdirected low level sources will not glare or cause discomfort tooccupants when illuminated. Further, camera illumination sources can beilluminated whenever the ignition switch is on to operate the vehicle orat least when the ignition switch is placed in an “accessory on”position so that both the camera and illumination lights are operatingon vehicle battery power even when parked. Alternately, the illuminationlights can be operational only when the baby minder camera is selectedto be operational. While it is preferred to use non-incandescent lights,incandescent light sources can be used, most preferably high intensity,low current incandescent light sources. For example, when the camera isactivated to view the rear seat or to view a baby seat or the like, thedome light in the vehicle, which typically comprises an incandescentlight source, can illuminate so that the rear seat area is illuminatedto assist visibility for the camera. A circuit or other device can beprovided that illuminates the dome light (or a similar rearseat-illuminating interior light source such as a rail lamp or the like)whenever the camera is selected to view the rear seat. Optionally, thedome light or similar interior light within the interior cabin, oncecaused to illuminate when the camera is activated, can cease toilluminate after a determined time interval (such as 5 seconds or tenseconds or longer) under the control of a timeout circuit or device. Byproviding a timeout, the driver can selectively view the status ofpassengers in the rear seat of the vehicle by selecting a baby-mindercamera or similar rear seat viewing function (such as by voice command,user-operated switch or the like). Upon selection of the camerafunction, whatever is being viewed on the video screen in the vehiclemay be interrupted (or superimposed over or the like), the interiorlight in the cabin (such as the dome light) will illuminate, a timeoutwill initiate, and the driver (or other front-seat occupant) can viewthe rear seat status for the duration of the timeout. Once the timeoutelapses, the interior light ceases to illuminate, and preferably, thecamera ceases to be activated and the video screen reverts to itspre-event status

[0064] Alternately, element 30 may comprise an information displayelement, in which element 30 conveys information to the vehicle operatorand/or other occupants of the vehicle or may be a video screen or thelike. For example, pendent accessory 24 may comprise a personalcommunication device, such as a PALM organizer or the like, including avideo screen, preferably a touch sensitive video screen such as PALMPilot™ such as is available from 3COM, Corp. or the like, which isadapted for input by the touch of a human finger or stylus. In whichcase, as described in reference to the following embodiments, assembly10 may include an accessory attachment member, for example such asattachment member 532 (FIG. 20), 756, (FIG. 24), for holding a styluspen which interacts with pendent assembly 24. Optionally, the stylus istethered to the mirror assembly, for example a coiled tether or aretractable tether or by other conventional means.

[0065] Display element 30 may perform a single display function ormultiple display functions, such as providing indication of anadditional vehicle function or functions, for example a compass mirrordisplay function, a temperature display function, a tire pressure/statusdisplay function, a status of inflation of tires display function,computer display including c-mails and INTERNET access, a passenger airbag disabled display function, an automatic rain sensor operationdisplay function, telephone dial information display function, highwaystatus information display function, blind spot indicator displayfunction, or the like. Such displays may be an alpha-numeric display ora multipixel display, and may be fixed or scrolling. In addition,display element 30 may comprise a television screen and/or video screen.Display element 30 may comprise a generally planar element or maycomprise a convex element. Alternately, display element 30 may beseparately formed and include tabs or receiving structures on eitherside adapted to fit within receiving structures or tabs, respectively,formed in the inside surfaces of housing 26 for assembly after moldingof housing 26.

[0066] Pendent accessory 24 optionally includes a second circuit board31 (FIG. 3), which is typically mounted adjacent and behind displayelement 30, which supports light emitting sources, such as lightemitting diodes to provide back lighting of display element 30. Lightemitting diodes provide low level non-incandescent white light forilluminating indicia on display element 30. However, it should beunderstood that other LED's providing light and colors other than white,such as amber, red, blue, or the like may be used. Alternately, otherlight emitting elements can be used to display information on displayelement 30, such as incandescent displays, vacuum fluorescent displays,electro-illuminescent displays, light emitting diode displays, cathoderay tube displays, field emission displays, E-ink displays, or organicemitting polymer displays or the like. Examples of displays may be foundin copending application entitled “REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLYINCORPORATING VEHICLE INFORMATION”, Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5,1999, by Jonathan DeLine and Niall R. Lynam, or U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240,and U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. P-783)filed Nov. 4, 1999, entitled “VEHICLE INTERIOR MIRROR ASSEMBLY” toPatrick Heslin and Niall R. Lynam, commonly assigned to DonnellyCorporation, which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. Alternately, circuit board 31 may also share components andprovide circuitry for other electrical components in mirror assembly 10,thus illuminating the need for mounting such circuitry within therearview mirror assembly housing itself.

[0067] As noted previously, pendent accessory 24 may also incorporate anin-vehicle train approaching warning system. Such a train approachingwarning system alerts the driver of the vehicle of the eminent arrivalof a train at a railroad crossing. Such a warning system can activateaudible and/or visual alarms in the vehicle if a train is approaching.Such train warning displays may override any existing displays so thatthe driver is fully alert to any potential hazard. Vehicle to road-sidecommunication antennas can be attached to railroad signs, crossingbarriers, and the like and can transmit to antennas mounted in thevehicle located such as within assembly 10 or within an interior cabintrim item or side exterior rearview mirror assembly. One such track sidecommunication system is available form Dynamic Vehicle Safety Systems ofAmarillo, Tex., which detects signals from trains approaching a crossingand transmits these signals along the road to forewarn of a railroadcrossing ahead.

[0068] It is also possible to incorporate low level console orinstrumentation lighting for vehicles in assembly 10 by fitting a lowlevel non-incandescent light emitting light source such as a lightemitting diode for illuminating an instrument panel or console asdisclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,996, the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference. In this embodiment, asingle instrument light 13 may be provided on an opposed end of mirrorcasing 12 and may include a variety of emitting sources such as highintensity amber and reddish orange light emitting diode sources, such assolid state light emitting diode LED sources utilizing double hydrojunction AIGaAs/GaAs Material Technology such as very high intensity redLED lamps T/1□ (5 mm) HLMP-4100/4101 available from Hewlett PackardCorporation of Pallo Alto, Calif., or transparent substrate aluminumindium gallium phosphide (AlInGaP) Material Technology, commerciallyavailable from Hewlett Packard Corporation, of Pallo Alto, Calif. Also,blue or white LEDs can be used or a combination of individual differentcolored diodes can be used with the color mixing therefrom to form adesired color. Optionally, a plurality of LEDs such as a cluster offour, six, eight or the like LEDs can be used to target and illuminate alocal area for higher illumination at that area, such as may be usefulin a map light (most preferably illuminating the target area with whitelight). The concepts of this present invention can be used with otherinterior rearview mirror assemblies which are equipped with a variety offeatures and accessories, such as a home access transmitter, a high/low(or daylight running beam/low) headlamp controller, a hands free phoneattachment, a video device, such as a video camera for internal cabinsurveillance and/or video telephone function, a remote keyless entryreceiver, a compass, a seat occupancy detection, multiple readinglights, a trip computer, an intrusion detector, and the like. Displayelement 30 may also include a compass/temperature and a clock display,fuel level display, and other vehicle status and other informationdisplays.

[0069] As it would be understood by those skilled in the art, theelectrically operated display and other devices optionally provided inpendent accessory 24 are conveniently connected to the electrical systemof the vehicle in which the present invention is mounted via electricalwiring 31 a (FIG. 3). The use of pendent accessory 24 with displayelement 30 comprising the instant invention in conjunction withelectrically operated interior rearview mirrors has the furtheradvantage of permitting electrical coupling of the display element tothe power supply of the vehicle by the pre-existing wire harnessesserving the rearview mirror. Thus, the electrical coupling of thedisplay element can be by direct connection with the existing wireharness or in parallel through an adapter plug. This particularlyfacilitates a retrofit such as might occur as in the after-market or ata dealership that is a result of an option selection. Alternately, theinterior mirror assembly can include a vehicle power socket, connectedto the vehicle ignition system or battery electrical system, (such asthe cigarette lighter type socket conventional on many automobile) intowhich other accessories can be plugged (such as in FIG. 25). Forexample, a “cigarette-lighter” type of socket can be provided at therear or at the bottom of the interior mirror case, into which a vehicleoccupant can plug an electrically operated (typically 12V) accessorysuch as a radar detector or the like.

[0070] Pendent accessory housing 28 preferably comprises a similarmaterial to casing 12 so that when element 30 is moved to its retractedposition as shown in FIG. 8, the lower surface 28 a of housing 28 willgenerally match the surface and color of mirror casing 12. Referring toFIG. 7a, support arm 26 preferably comprises a spring loaded support armand includes an elongated shaft 40 on which ball member 34 is mounted.As best seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, housing 28 may include a recessed surface38, for example an elongated depression which provides tactileidentification of housing 28 and when pushed releases pendent accessory24 from its retracted position so that pendent accessory 24 can beextended and retracted from the storage space and optionally swiveledand/or universally pivoted about ball member 34 to a desiredorientation. Similarly, when returned to its recessed position orstorage space, recessed surface 38 is pressed to relatch pendentaccessory 24 in its retracted position within casing 12. Such mechanismsare conventional and well known. In this manner, the occupant of thevehicle can quickly selectively insert the pendent accessory into itsstorage space within case 12 and quickly extend or remove the accessoryfrom its storage space for personal use or use by another occupant ofthe vehicle.

[0071] As best seen in FIG. 6, housing 28 of display assembly 24includes one or more recessed gripping surfaces 42 and 44 to permit easyadjustment of the position of housing 28 about support arm 26. In theillustrated embodiment, surfaces 42 and 44 comprise round indentations,but it should be understood that other shapes may be used. Furthermore,surfaces 42 and 44 provide tactile identification of housing 28 topermit quick adjustment with minimal distraction to the driver.

[0072] By selectively and extensibly positioning a display element or avanity mirror below casing 12 on the end of casing 12 closer to thepassenger side of the vehicle, as shown in FIGS. 3-8, the obstruction tothe vehicle operator is minimized. Furthermore, the accessory is locatedin a position which is well known to the driver and, therefore, requireslittle concentration to use, and such movement in reaching for theaccessory is almost automatic. Such automatic actions require far lessattention than actions requiring new movement and will consequentlyminimize the distraction to the driver as well. Optionally, pendentaccessory 24 may be provided with other electrical or electronicfeatures or accessories, such as previously described in reference tomirror assembly 10.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 8A, mirror assembly 10′ may include a videoscreen 13′. In the illustrated embodiment, display screen 13′ is placedto the side of reflector 14′ in casing 12′. In preferred form, displayscreen 13′ is separate from reflector 14′. Most preferably, video screen13′ is canted toward the driver when mirror housing 12′ is in itsnormally adjusted position. Video screen 13′ can display output fromsuch as a rear vision back-up camera, such as disclosed in copendingapplication Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, and 09/361,814filed Jul. 27, 1999, commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation, thedisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties, a baby minder camera, such as the vehicle interiorsurveillance camera disclosed previously, vehicle instrument status,such as vehicle information display, such as information relating tofuel gauge levels and the like. Referring to FIG. 8B, mirror assembly10″ may include a pair of screen displays 13 a″ and 13 b″. In theillustrated embodiment, displays 13 a″ and 13 b″ are positioned in case12″ at opposed sides adjacent reflective element 14″. Preferably,displays 13 a″ and 13 b″ are similarly positioned behind bezel 12 a″ sothat displays 13 a″ and 13 b″ generally lie in the same plane asreflective element 14″. Optionally, cameras (not shown) may be mountedin case 12″ on either side as part of the interior mirror assembly, withone camera feeding display element 13 a″ and the other camera feedingdisplay element 13 b″.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 9-14, the numeral 110 designates a secondembodiment of the rearview mirror assembly of the present invention.Mirror assembly 110 includes a mirror casing or housing 112, bezel orretaining rim 112 a, and a reflective element 114 supported in mirrorhousing 112. The material of housing 112 is similar to housing 12;therefore, reference is made to housing 12 for further details ofsuitable materials. Similar reference is made to the first embodimentfor further details of mirror reflective element 114.

[0075] Extending rearwardly from housing 112 is a mirror support arm116, which mounts mirror housing 112 by way of a mounting bracket ormirror mount similar to bracket 17 onto a mirror mounting button (notshown) provided on most conventional windshields to form a break-awayassembly. Reference is made to support arm 16 and bracket 17 for detailsof one preferred support arm and preferred mounting arrangements.

[0076] As best seen in FIGS. 10-13, housing 112 includes a storage space122 for holding or storing an accessory 124. In the illustratedembodiment, accessory 124 comprises a light assembly, such as aflashlight assembly. However, accessory 124 may comprise a cellularphone, a phone module, pager, INTERNET connector, or the like. In thecase of docking a telecommunication device such as a phone or a pager,the mirror assembly is preferably adapted to connect to thetelecommunication device such as a phone in a manner such that thevehicle control system will recognize the phone and, optionally, directincoming phone calls to speakers, which may be located in the mirrorassembly or elsewhere in the vehicle. In this manner, the dockable phonemay provide removable hands-free phone function. Furthermore, in oneform, the phone may automatically be activated by the occupant's voiceor a switch or by the docking of the phone onto the mirror assembly. Inthis manner, the phone may be removed when the occupant exits the carfor normal remote use or may be docked for hands-free use.

[0077] In preferred form, storage space 122 is provided on forwardfacing side or back wall 113 of housing 112 and comprises a recessedarea which extends from an upper wall 112 a of housing 112 to a lowerwall 112 b of housing 112. In this manner, storage space 122 is hiddenfrom view from the occupant of the vehicle, but readily accessible bythe driver or other occupants of the vehicle. In preferred form, lightassembly 124 includes a housing 126, and a removable lens 128 which forma unitary body 130. Body 130 preferably includes a suitable battery orbatteries, which may be rechargeable. Body 130 is preferablycommensurate in shape with the outer surface 131 of housing 112 suchthat when light assembly 124 is mounted in storage space 122, the outersurfaces 130 a of unitary body 130 follow the contours of housing 112and, further, the outer surfaces 130 a of unitary body 130 are generallyflush with surface of housing 112 surrounding storage surface 122. Inthis manner, when light assembly 124 is mounted to housing 112, lightassembly 124 forms a unitary body having matched and correspondingcontours which are flush with housing 112. As would be understood bythose skilled in the art, housing 126 supports a bulb and a battery,preferably a rechargeable battery. In preferred form, housing 126supports a pair of battery contacts 131 a which align with contacts 131b provided on casing 112 to permit quick recharging of the battery orbatteries inside housing via the vehicle electrical system without theneed for disassembling light assembly 124. Alternately, the interiorrearview mirror assembly may include a power source, such as arecharger, such as housing 112, that recharges the battery or batteriesin the dockable accessory, which is stored or attached thereto. Aspreviously noted, such dockable accessories can include pagers, cellularphones, flash lights or the like. In this manner, accessory 124 can bedocked for recharging. In the case of the light assembly, the lightassembly can be docked for use as a map reading light or the like. Whenundocked, light assembly 124 may be used as a flashlight, as previouslynoted.

[0078] In the case of a dockable phone, housing 112 optionally includesat least one speaker and microphone, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug. 25, 1999, by Niall R. Lynamet al. When the phone is docked, the phone may be optionally connectedto the vehicle system such that the vehicle system enables the speakersand microphones to provide hands-free operation of the phone. Actuationof the hands-free phone may be achieved when the phone is docked or by aseparate switch mounted, for example on the dashboard or, alternately,to the interior mirror assembly.

[0079] Alternately, the phone module of a cellular or digital phone maybe docked on the mirror housing such that the vehicle system couples thephone module to the speakers and microphones to provide a hands-freephone system. In this manner, the module can be quickly and easilydocked and, further, removed for replacement into the phone housing.

[0080] In addition, when either the phone or phone module is docked, ascell phone calls become traceable through a global positioning system(GPS), emergency phone calls may be forwarded or routed to the correctemergency agency for that location. Since each phone has a uniqueidentifier, GPS can identify a phone and, further, identify the locationof that phone. For example, the phone or mirror assembly may include aseparate emergency button which can be activated by an occupant of thevehicle to notify local emergency agencies that an occupant of thevehicle is in need for emergency assistance. For example, tracing of thephone may be incorporated into or used in conjunction with a vehiclenavigation system, such as described in copending provisionalapplication Serial No. 60/131,593, filed Apr. 29, 1999, entitled“VEHICLE-BASED NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH SMART MAP FILTERING, PORTABLE UNITHOME-BASE REGISTRATION AND MULTIPLE NAVIGATION SYSTEM PREFERENTIAL USE”,which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Where thevehicle is equipped with a GPS system, the GPS system can monitor themovement of the vehicle, and by knowing that the vehicle has moved fromone location to another, and because the GPS knows the geographicposition of both locations relative to each other, the navigation systemcan determine the directional heading of the vehicle, and furnish thisas a compass heading signal for display as a compass display such as atthe interior mirror assembly.

[0081] A variety of electrical and electronic features can beincorporated into the rearview mirror assembly, such as those disclosedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. P-783)filed Nov. 4, 1999, entitled “VEHICLE INTERIOR MIRROR ASSEMBLY” toPatrick Heslin and Niall R. Lynam, commonly assigned to DonnellyCorporation, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.For example, a microphone or a plurality of microphones may beincorporated, preferably to provide hands-free input to a wirelesstelecommunication system such as the ONSTAR™ system in use in GeneralMotors vehicles. Most preferably such microphones provide input to anaudio system that transmits and communicates wirelessly with a remotetransceiver, preferably in voice recognition mode. Such systems aredescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug. 25,1999, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

[0082] In this regard it may be desirable to use audio processingtechniques such as digital sound processing to ensure that vocal inputsto the vehicular audio system are clearly distinguished from cabinambient noise such as from wind noise, HVAC, and the like. Digital soundprocessing techniques, as known in the acoustics arts and such as aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,959,865 entitled “A METHOD FOR INDICATINGTHE PRESENCE OF SPEECH IN AN AUDIO SIGNAL”, issued Sep. 25, 1990, toStettiner et al. (the disclosure of which incorporated by referenceherein), are particularly useful to enhance clarity of vocal signaldetection when a single microphone is used, located in the interiormirror assembly such as in casing 12, as part of a vehicular wirelesscommunication system such as General Motors' ONSTAR™ system. Use ofdigital signal processing and a single mirror-mounted microphone (suchas is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/396,179, filedSep. 14, 1999, entitled “INDICATOR FOR VEHICLE ACCESSORY”, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein) is particularlyadvantageous for economical achievement of clear and error-freetransmission from the vehicle, while operating along a highway, to aremote receiver, particularly in speech-recognition mode. Althoughadvantageous with a single mirror-mounted microphone (or for amicrophone mounted elsewhere in the vehicle cabin such as in the headerregion), digital sound processing is also beneficial when multiplemicrophones are used. For example a first microphone, mounted in themirror casing 12, can be directed principally towards the mouth of thedriver and a second microphone can be directed so as to detect vehicularambient noise such from HVAC, windshield vibration etc. A signalindicative of the ambient noise can be generated by processing theoutput of the second microphone, and this signal can be subtracted froma signal generated by processing the output of the first microphone toform a signal substantially representative of the speech picked up bythe first microphone. Techniques and circuitry to achieve such speechenhancement are known in the acoustics art, such as are disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,381,473, issued Jan. 10, 1995, entitled “NOISECANCELLATION APPARATUS” to D. Andrea, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Also, noise cancellation techniquessuch as destructive interference can advantageously be used, whereby thesignal as picked up by the microphone is processed, the human vocalsignal is distinguished from the noise signal, and whereby the noisesignal is fed back 180 degrees out of phase with itself in order tocancel out the noise by destructive interference and so enhance thevocal signal to background noise ratio. Digital sound processing ispreferably accomplished using a microprocessor. A variety ofmicroprocessors can be used such as a single-chip microcomputeroptimized for digital signal processing and high speed numericprocessing such as the ADSP-218x digital signal processors such as theADSP-2186 single-chip microcomputer, which integrates 40 kilobytes ofon-chip memory (including 8K words (24-bit) of program RAM and 8K words(16-bit) of data RAM) along with serial ports, DMA ports, timers, I/Olines, and interrupt capabilities. The ADSP-2186 microcomputer and theADSP-218x digital signal processors are available from Analog Devices,Inc., Norwood, Mass. In a vehicle wireless communication systeminstalled in a vehicular cabin, location of the microphone(s) in theinterior mirror assembly (such as in casing 12) is advantageous. Fordigital sound processing of the sound signal detected by themirror-mounted microphone, an analog to digital converter can be alsolocated at the interior rearview mirror assembly (such as in casing 12)that converts the analog microphone sensor output to digital form. Themicroprocessor for performing the digital sound processing algorithmsand analysis can also be located at the interior rearview mirrorlocation (such as in casing 12). Alternately, the microprocessorperforming the digital sound processing analysis can be locatedelsewhere in the vehicle cabin (such as in the vehicle dash, preferablysharing circuitry with other functions of the vehicle wirelesscommunication system), and with the digitized output signal from the A/Dconverter linked to the mirror-mounted microphone being fed to themicroprocessor via a wire link or via a car area network (a.k.a.controlled area network) or via a vehicular local area network or via anin-cabin, short-range radio transmission network such as via theBLUETOOTH system described below.

[0083] Preferably the microphone interfaces to an audio system thatincludes an analog to digital converter and/or a digital to analogconverter for the purpose of converting the analog output of themicrophone to a digital signal for input to a digital sound processorand for conversion of the digital output of a digital sound processor toan analog signal for wireless transmission to a remote transceiver.Digital sound processing techniques may be used to enhance the vocalsignal to background noise discrimination ratio. Also, both analog anddigital audio filtering techniques can be used to enhance the vocal tobackground noise ratio, and so assist clarity of transmission and/orreceipt at a remote receiver and so improve accuracy in voicerecognition mode. Also, physical techniques such as sound insulation,acoustic wave guides, angling of microphones to selectively detectspeech versus background noise, use of a directed microphone directed toa potential human speaker in conjunction with a more omnidirectionalmicrophone/sensor microphone intended to detect background noise can beused. Techniques useful to enhance vocal to noise signal ratio includeuse of analog and/or digital low-pass filtering to limit examination ofsignal content to, for example, less than 1000 Hz. or less than 750 Hz.(and so help distinguish vocal signal from noise signals), include useof syllabic rate filtering such as is described in U.S. Pat. No.4,484,344, include use of a hangover time function such as disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 4,187, 396, include use of a digital sound switch and dualthreshold detection such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,052,568 andinclude noise canceling microphones and techniques such as disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,909,495 (the disclosures of the above cited U.S. patentsare incorporated by reference herein). The vehicular microphone can bevoice-activated such as by a digital voice operated switch such as isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,251,263, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. An adaptive signal processing systemcan be used to enhance vocal to noise ratio. Adaptive noise cancellationtechniques can be used to produce a speech indication signal in responseto detection of voice information in the presence of backgroundvehicular noise such as are described in “Adaptive Noise Canceling:Principles and Applications” Proc. IEEE, vol. 63, pp. 1692-1716,December, 1975 by B. Widrow et al., and “Adaptive Noise Canceling forSpeech Signals”, IEEE Trans. Acoust. Speech and Sig. Proc., vol.ASSP-26, No. Oct. 5, 1978, by M. Sambur, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,033,082entitled “COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION”, issuedJul. 16, 1999, to Eriksson et al, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,251,263 entitled“ADAPTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION AND SPEECH ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM AND APPARATUSTHEREOF”, issued Oct. 5, 1993, to Andrea et al, the disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated herein in their entirety. Mechanicalcancellation of ambient noise can be provided, as can a noise cancelingpressure gradient microphone, preferably in conjunction with acousticports including voice and noise ports. Such a system is disclosed inWorld Patent publication WO 9817046 A1 to D. Andrea, published Apr. 23,1998, and entitled “NOISE CANCELING ACOUSTICAL IMPROVEMENT TO WIRELESSTELEPHONE OR CELLULAR PHONE”, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference. A pressure gradient microphone, as known inthe acoustic arts, can be used to reduce the background vehicular noiseas detected by a vehicular mirror-mounted microphone, or alternatively,an acoustic feedback system, preferably including compensation filters,can be used. Also, closed-loop active noise reduction techniques andother noise reduction techniques can be used such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 2,972,018; 3,098,121; 4,833,719; 4,878,188; 4,977,600; and5,138,664, and in Japanese Patent Abstract No. 3-169199, the disclosuresof which are incorporated by reference herein. An adaptive noisecancellation and speech enhancement system and apparatus suitable to usea vehicle with a mirror-mounted microphone is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,251,263, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.This adaptive noise cancellation system is particularly beneficial whenmultiple vehicular microphones are used. Other noise cancellationtechniques useful for vehicular microphones, and particularly formirror-mounted microphones that provide in put to wireless communicationsystems, particularly in voice-recognition mode, are disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,732,143; 5,825,897; and 5,673, 325, the disclosures of whichare incorporated by reference herein.

[0084] Also, an indicator such as disclosed in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, entitled “INDICATOR FORVEHICLE ACCESSORY”, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein, can be incorporated into the interior mirror assembly thatindicates to the driver and/or passengers that speech being detected bya mirror-mounted microphone (or a microphone located elsewhere in thevehicle cabin such as in a header console) is being transmitted andreceived clearly and error-free by a remote wireless receiver such as anONSTARTM operator or a voice recognition system such as is common whencalling airlines, services and the like. For example, the signal aswirelessly transmitted from the audio system in the vehicle to theremote receiver may be echoed or retransmitted back to the vehiclewhere, upon receipt of the retransmitted signal at the vehicle, anin-vehicle voice recognition system interprets the as-receivedretransmitted signal and either speaks the words/numbers interpreted tothe driver for confirmation, or displays the message as received in thevehicle after retransmission so the driver/passenger receives andaudible and/or visual indication of what the remote voice recognitiontranscriber is receiving. If the in-vehicle voice recognitionsystem/in-vehicle indicator is not indicating the expected message, thenthe driver/passenger will know that the original transmission to theremote voice recognition system was not clear and contained error, andtake appropriate action such as repeating the message. By retransmittingback to the vehicle, and confirming in-vehicle, the vehicle occupantscan be assured that wireless transmission to the like of a voicerecognition system is clear and error-free.

[0085] The interior mirror assembly may include a variety of informationdisplays such as a PSIR (Passenger Side Inflatable Restraint) display,an SIR (Side-Airbag Inflatable Restraint), compass/temperature display,a tire pressure status display or other desirable displays, such asthose described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filedFeb. 5, 1999, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein.

[0086] For example, the interior rearview mirror assembly may include adisplay of the speed limit applicable to the location where the vehicleis travelling. Conventionally, speed limits are posted as a fixed limit(for example, 45 MPH) that is read by the vehicle driver upon passing asign. As an improvement to this, an information display (preferably analphanumerical display and more preferably, a reconfigurable display)can be provided within the vehicle cabin, readable by the driver, thatdisplays the speed limit at whatever location on the road/highway thevehicle actually is at any moment. For example, existing speed limitsigns could be enhanced to include a transmitter that broadcasts a localspeed limit signal, such signal being received by an in-vehicle receiverand displayed to the driver. The speed limit signal can be transmittedby a variety of wireless transmission methods, such as radiotransmission, and such systems can benefit from wireless transmissionprotocols and standards, such as the BLUETOOTH low-cost, low-power radiobased cable replacement or wireless link based on short-rangeradio-based technology. BLUETOOTH enables creation of a short-range(typically 30 feet or so although longer and shorter ranges arepossible), wireless personal area network via small radio transmittersbuilt into various devices. For example, transmission can be on a 2.45gigahertz band, moving data at about 721 kilobits per second, or faster.BLUETOOTH, and similar systems, allow creation of an in-vehicle areanetwork. Conventionally, features and accessories in the vehicle orwired together. Thus, for example, an interior electrochromic mirror andan exterior electrochromic mirror is connected by at least one wire inorder to transmit control signal and the like. With BLUETOOTH andsimilar systems, control commands can be broadcast between the interiormirror and the exterior mirror (and vice versa) without the need forphysical wiring interconnecting the two. Likewise, the two exteriormirror assemblies on the vehicle can exchange, transmit and/or receivecontrol commands/signals (such as of memory position or the like such asis described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein) via an in-vehicle short-rangeradio local network such as BLUETOOTH. Similarly, tire pressure sensorsin the wheels can transmit via BLUETOOTH to a receiver in the interiormirror assembly, and tire pressure status can be displayed, preferablyat the interior rearview mirror. In the case of the dynamic speed limitsystem described above, preferably, the in-vehicle receiver is locatedat and/or the display of local speed limit is displayed at the interiormirror assembly (for example, a speed limit display can be located in achin or eyebrow portion of the mirror case, such as in the mirrorreflector itself, such as in the cover 40, or such as in a pod attachedto the interior mirror assembly). More preferably, the actual speed ofthe vehicle can be displayed simultaneously with and beside the localspeed limit in-vehicle display and/or the difference or excess theretocan be displayed. Optionally, the wireless-based speed limittransmission system can actually control the speed at which a subjectvehicle travels in a certain location (such as by controlling an enginegovernor or the like). Thus, a school zone speed limit can be enforcedby transmission of a speed-limiting signal into the vehicle. Likewise,different classes of vehicles can be set for different speed limits forthe same stretch of highway. The system may also require driveridentification and then set individual speed limits for individualdrivers reflecting their skill level, age, driving record and the like.Moreover, a global positioning system (GPS) can be used to locate aspecific vehicle, calculate its velocity on the highway, verify what theallowed speed limit is at that specific moment on that specific stretchof highway, transmit that specific speed limit to the vehicle fordisplay (preferably at the interior rearview mirror that the driverconstantly looks at as part of the driving task) and optionally alertthe driver or retard the driver's ability to exceed the speed limit asdeemed appropriate. A short-range, local communication system such asenvisaged in the BLUETOOTH protocol finds broad utility in vehicularapplications, and particularly where information is to be displayed atthe interior mirror assembly, or where a microphone or user-interface(such as buttons to connect/interact with a remote wireless receiver) isto be located at the interior (or exterior) rearview mirror assembly.For example, a train approaching a railway crossing may transmit awireless signal such as a radio signal (using the BLUETOOTH protocol oranother protocol) and that signal may be received by and/or displayed atthe interior rearview mirror assembly (or the exterior sideview mirrorassembly). Also, the interior rearview mirror and/or the exterior sideview mirrors can function as transceivers/display locations/interfacelocations for intelligent vehicle highway systems, using protocols suchas the BLUETOOTH protocol. Protocols such as BLUETOOTH, as known in thetelecommunications art, can facilitate voice/data, voice over data,digital and analogue communication and vehicle/external wirelessconnectivity, preferably using the interior and/or exterior mirrorassemblies as transceiver/display/user-interaction sites. Electronicaccessories to achieve the above can be accommodated in casing 12,and/or elsewhere in the interior mirror assembly (such as in the housingdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney DocketNo. P-783) filed Nov. 4, 1999, entitled “VEHICLE INTERIOR MIRRORASSEMBLY” to Patrick Heslin and Niall R. Lynam.

[0087] Providing a docking capability and/or storage space for the likeof a cellular phone has several advantages, especially when used inconjunction with an in-vehicle microphone and ONSTAR™ or similarvehicular wireless communication system. In such a system, the vehicletypically comes equipped from the original equipment manufacturer(typically an automaker such as General Motors, Ford or the like) withan excellent radio/CD/tape audio system with good speakers, amplifiers,graphic equalizers etc. Coupled with a high quality microphone, thequality and power of the vehicular audio system typically exceeds thatfound in a hand-held cellular phone. Also, when the vehicle is equippedwith an ONSTARTM system, the vehicle is typically already provided witha quality wireless transmitting/receiving antenna, and often with a GPSsystem as well. Thus, providing a docking function (preferably at theinterior rearview mirror but at other location such as the headerconsole or the like is contemplated) has advantages beyond providing arecharging power source to the personal hand-held phone (or pager or thelike). Once docked (which encompasses linking the portable unit to theinterior mirror assembly via a cable or via a cable-less connection suchas by a remote IR link), the driver and/or passengers can optionally andpreferably make and receive telephone calls via their docked personalphone, but with the audio system being provided by the in-vehicle,pre-existing, speakers, amplifiers, microphone etc. Preferably, whenevera phone call is initiated, any radio station or other music or playthough the vehicle audio system is turned off for the duration of thephone call. Also, the ringing tone indicating a call is being receivedat the docked personal phone preferably sounds through the car audiosystem so that it is audible even if the car audio is playing music orthe like. In this manner, the driver and/or passenger can be contactedvia their personal cellular phone number while driving on the highway.As regulations increase forbidding the use cellular phones whiledriving, unless hands-free, use of the existing vehicle audio system tomake and receive calls is advantageous as quality of sound is enhancedthereby. The present invention contemplates a personal cellular phonehaving a detachable module that includes the circuitry that makes thatphone specific and unique in terms of caller identifier. Thus, when thedriver, for example, enters the vehicle, he/she detaches the identifiermodule from the personal mobile hand-held cellular phone and plugs it toa receiving portion of the in-vehicle wireless transmission system (thatmay comprise an antenna, speakers, an amplifier, a microphone, a keypadetc). Once the identifier module is plugged into the vehicular wirelesscommunication system, the vehicle wireless communication system nowemulates the hand-held personal phone, allowing calls be made orreceived at the personal phone number of the owner of the personalcellular phone. All such in-vehicle communication can be invoice-recognition mode, or a keypad can be provided for the driver tokey in a phone number. Although illustrated here for a cellular phone,these concepts have broad application to like of hand-held computers andthe like. Also, soon all cellular phone calls will be traceable as tothe geographic location of the call. Thus, by making a call from thevehicle, the location of the vehicle is traceable by the likes of thephone service provider such as MCI, SPRINT and the like. Thus, thegeographic location of the vehicle can be identified by the driverplacing a call. A user-operated “SOS” button can be provided in thevehicle such that, when activated, a cellular phone call is initiated,this call is directed to the cellular phone company, the cellular phonecompany identifies the vehicle's location, and the cellular serviceprovider, once the vehicle's location is identified, automaticallyconnects the phone to the emergency “911” service particular to thelocation of the vehicle. Thus, no matter where the call is made from,the driver of the vehicle is automatically connected to the emergencyservices.

[0088] Also, where a dockable accessory is used and in other situations,the interior mirror assembly may include a recharging unit and/or a lowvoltage (typical less than 10 volts, such as 5 volts or lower) powersource (preferably of direct current power) to power the likes of acellular phone, lap-top computer of the like. A socket for this purposemay be provided on the mirror casing 12 (or elsewhere on the interiormirror assembly), or a powering and/or recharging cable can be stores incasing 12, and pulled out (preferably under spring-load so as toautomatically rewind) as required to power the accessory. Preferably,the recharging unit, including any associated electronic circuitry, ishoused in casing 12 of the interior rearview mirror assembly.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 9, housing 126 of light assembly 124 ispreferably made from a similar material to housing 112 so that whenlight assembly 124 is docked or mounted to housing 112, outer surface126 a of housing 126 blends with or matches outer surface 131 of housing112. Lens 128 preferably includes an outer surface 128 a which issubstantially continuous with outer surface 126 a of housing 126 andfurther includes a rounded end portion 128 b, which generally followsthe outer periphery 112 e of housing 112. In this manner, when lightassembly 124 is mounted to housing 112, light assembly 124 follows thecontours of housing 112 and provides a smooth substantially continuoussurface with outer surface 131 of housing 112. Examples of suitablematerials for lens 128 may be found are acrylic and polycarbonate.

[0090] As best understood from FIGS. 9 and 11, light assembly 124optionally includes a pair of engagement surfaces 132 which providetactile identification of assembly 124 so that assembly 124 can bequickly located without visual contact. In addition, engagement surfaces132 provide gripping surfaces for the occupant so that light assembly124 can be quickly disengaged from housing 112 or returned to or dockedin its storage space on the rear wall or forward facing side of housing112.

[0091] In preferred form, storage space 122 is defined by a firstgenerally planar recessed wall section 134 (FIG. 14) of housing 112which extends along an axis 136. Axis 136 is generally parallel to thereflective element assembly 114. Planar surface 134 is bounded by upperand lower walls 112 b and 112 c and end wall 112 d of housing 112 andfurther by a second planar recessed wall 138 of housing 112. In thepreferred embodiment, second planar recessed wall 138 extends at aslight angle to an axis 140 (see FIG. 9) which is substantiallyorthogonal to axis 136 and to upper and lower walls 112 b and 112 c ofhousing 112. Similar to planar wall 134, planar wall 138 extends betweenupper and lower walls 112 a and 112 b to form with planar wall 134, aslightly open, L-shaped configuration. In preferred form, planar wall134 includes one or more projecting members 142 (FIG. 14), for examplebayonet type connectors, which extend outwardly from planar wall 134. Inthe illustrated embodiment, planar wall 134 includes four projectingmembers 142 for engaging corresponding receiving structures, for exampleopenings 144 provided on housing 126 of light assembly 124 (FIG. 13).Receiving structures 144 are configured to receive projecting members142 and to releasably couple light assembly 124 to housing 112, as wouldbe understood by those skilled in the art. Alternately, housing 112 mayinclude receiving structures with light assembly 124 includingprojecting members. Other releasable couplers which may be used includerails that provide a sliding arrangement of light assembly 124 ontohousing 112. In addition, light assembly 124 may be coupled to housing112 by Velcro or magnets or a combination of magnets and metal inserts.In this manner, light assembly 124 may be quickly and easily removedfrom housing 112 for use by the operator or passenger of the vehicle.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 15 and FIG. 15A, a third embodiment 210 of therearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated.Rearview mirror assembly 210 includes a mirror casing or housing 212 anda reflective element 214, similar to the first and second embodiments.Housing 212 is mounted to a windshield button B, which is adhered towindshield W in a conventional manner, by a break-away mounting bracketor mirror mount 217 and support arm 216. Reference is made to supportarm 16 and bracket 17 for further details. As noted in reference to thefirst embodiment, mirror assembly 210 may be alternately mounted to aheadliner of a vehicle, as would be understood by those skilled in theart. Housing 212 includes a bezel or retaining rim 212 a which extendsaround the periphery of the rearward opening of housing 212 and over aperipheral edge portion of reflective element 214. Bezel 212 a mayoptionally include one or more displays, buttons, or indicators, such asLED's, as noted in reference to the first embodiment.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, mirror housing 212 includes astorage space 222 for storing accessories, for example sun glasses,tools, including pocket knives or Swiss army knives, pencils, keys,coins, paper money, credit cards, pass cards, including toll cards,access cards, paperwork, such as registration or insurance papers, orthe like. In addition, storage space 222 may be used for holding trash,such as scrap paper, food or candy wrappers, or the like. As usedherein, “accessories” includes a wide range of objects that can be usedby the driver or other occupants of the vehicle, including money, tools,including writing instruments, parking receipts, glasses, gloves,cosmetics, paper products, such as writing pads, kleenex, cleaningproducts, such as wipes, eye glass cleaning supplies, cards, such asbusiness cards, credit cards, access cards, or the like. It should beunderstood that this list of objects is not exhaustive and merely anexample of the various objects that can be stored in the mirrorlocation. In the illustrated embodiment, storage space 222 comprises anopen storage space defined by a trough-shaped recess 224 which extendsinto top wall 212 b of housing 212 and which includes an access opening222 a. It should be understood that the shape of the storage space maybe adjusted as desired; for example, recess 224 forming the storagespace may be cylindrical in order to provide a storage space for acylindrical accessory such as a cup, container, or the like. In thismanner, storage space 222 provides a cup holding function. In theillustrated embodiment, opening 222 a extends over the full length andwidth of recess 222. But, it should be understood that opening 222 a maybe reduced over either or both its length and width.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 16, recess 224 comprises a plastictrough-shaped unitary body 230 which includes side walls 232 and 234,end walls 236 and 238, and a bottom wall 240. Extending around the openmouth 242 of body 230 is a lip 244 which may be formed or positioned onupper surface 228 of housing 212 to provide a tactile identification ofrecess 224. Alternately, lip 244 may be formed generally flush withupper surface 228 of upper wall 212 b such that body 230 does not createany irregularities in the outline of casing 212. Optionally, case 212may be molded with an opening formed in upper wall 212 b, with thestorage space 222 being separately molded and inserted into the openingof the case 212. Preferably, the bin or tray may be adapted, such as bysizing, to have a snug fit into the opening whereby the bin or tray isremovable for cleaning or substitution with alternate binconfigurations. Alternately, the insert may be fixed in the opening, forexample, by ultra sonically welding or by other suitable fasteningmethods, such as suitable adhesives, or releasable couplers such as snapfingers which are known in the art. Alternately, storage space 222 maybe molded with the mirror case such that the upper wall of the mirrorcase is shaped so that the outer upper surface forms the bin.

[0095] Referring again to FIG. 16, body 230 may include one or morereinforcing ribs 246. Ribs 246 project inwardly from side walls 232, 234and bottom wall 240 to form generally U-shaped dividers. In theillustrated embodiment, ribs 246 define four compartments or sub-spaces248 a, 248 b, 248 c, and 248 d, which prevent shifting of smallerarticles such as coins, keys, or the like in storage space 222 or alongbody 230. Furthermore, ribs 246 provide lateral support for glassesplaced in body 230.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 15A, reflective element 214 may comprise anelectrochromic element of an electrochromic element module. Theelectrochromic mirror element, for example, includes two substrates 214a and 214 b (typically glass substrates) with an electrochromic medium214 d sandwiched between the substrates. The electrochromic elementmodule preferably includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 214 c which maybe attached to its rear surface as shown in FIG. 15A, by for example anadhesive. An example of such an arrangement as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,820,245, commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation, which isincorporated in its entirety by reference herein. The PCB optionallyincludes glare sensing and ambient photo sensors and assemblyelectrochromic circuitry that automatically dims the reflectivity of theelectrochromic mirror element when glare conditions are detected atnight time when mounted in the vehicle. Alternately, the PCB may be snapconnected, by a clip or otherwise attached, to a plastic plate thatitself is adhered to the electrochromic element. Importantly, theelectrochromic module comprising the electrochromic reflective elementand attached electronics, may provide scatter proofing means, and thelike. Preferably, the electrochromic element module forms a relativelyslim package, at its widest cross-section the package is preferably lessthan or equal to about 25 mm in dimension, more preferably less than orequal to about 15 mm in dimension, and most preferably less than orequal to about 8 mm in dimension. By placing, as shown in FIG. 15A, allnecessary electronics and reflector element forward in the case towardthe driver, the space between the rear of the reflector module can beutilized for storage, such as by way of recess 224. As illustrated inFIG. 15A, the storage space 222 is located in case 212 at a locationbehind the reflective element 214. Preferably, the reflective elementcomprises a front substrate and a rear substrate with an electrochromicmedium disposed between, such as a solid polymer matrix electrochromicmedium such as is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/350,930 filed Jul. 12, 1999, entitled “ELECTROCHROMIC POLYMERIC SOLIDFILMS, MANUFACTURING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES USING SUCH FILMS, ANDPROCESSES FOR MAKING SUCH SOLID FILMS AND DEVICES” to Desaraju V.Varaprasad et al., the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein. Most preferably, the front substrate comprises aglass plate of thickness less than about 1.6 mm, most preferably about1.1 mm thickness or lower, and the rear substrate comprises a glassplate of thickness equal to or greater than about 1.6 mm, morepreferably greater than about 1.8 mm thickness, most preferably equal toor greater than about 2.0 mm thickness. The rearmost surface of the rearsubstrate (the fourth surface as known in the mirror art) is reflectorcoated with a high reflecting metal film such as of aluminum or silver,or an alloy of aluminum or silver. Most preferably, the frontmostsurface of the rear substrate (the third surface as known in the mirrorart) is reflector coated with a high reflecting metal film such as ofaluminum or silver, or an alloy of aluminum or silver. Also, and asillustrated in FIG. 15A, storage space 222 is located behind thereflective element 214, and is positioned in the space between thereflective element and the windshield W of the vehicle, when theinterior rearview mirror assembly is mounted in the vehicle. Preferably,the trough-shaped storage space has length dimension (parallel to thelong dimension of casing 212) of at least about 3 inches, morepreferably at least about 4 inches, most preferably at least about 5inches), and width dimension (perpendicular to the long dimension ofcasing 212) preferably of at least about 0.75 inches, more preferably atleast about 1.5 inches, most preferably of at least about 2.5 inches.

[0097] Optionally, the front surface of the front substrate (i.e. thefirst surface as known in the mirror art) 214 a can be coated with asurface coating or otherwise modified so as to reduce the build up ofcondensation or mist such as can occur in humid climates. For example,the front surface of the front substrate 214 a (which is the surfaceupon which condensation/mist might gather or which would be subject toraindrops should the vehicle be a convertible and be driven with hooddown during rain) may be optionally coated with a water wettingcharacteristic modification coating such as a hydrophilic coating suchas a photocatalytic hydrophilic coating system such as is disclosed inJapanese Patent Abstract JP11050006A, issued Feb. 23, 1999, titled“Pretreatment of surface Forming Photocatalytic Hydrophilic Film andCleaning Agent and Undercoating Composition Used Therein” to Mitsumasaet al of Toto Ltd, and in JP 10330131A, issued Dec. 15, 1998, titled“Hydrophilic Thin Film and Vehicular Mirror and Glass Product Using TheSame Hydrophilic Thin Film” to Tsutomu et al of Ichikoh Ind Ltd, and inJP10036144A, issued Feb. 10, 1998, titled “Antifogging Element” to Toruet al of Murakami Corporation, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, issuedMar. 3, 1998, titled “Electrochromic Mirrors and Devices” to Varaprasadet al of Donnelly Corporation, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference herein. Also, such wetting characteristicmodification coatings and techniques, such as photocatalytic hydrophiliccoatings, can be used for the first (frontmost) surface of anon-electrochromic reflective element such as a prismatic interiormirror reflective element (and for the first surface of electrochromicexterior mirror reflective elements and of metal coated, such aschromium coated, exterior non-electrochromic mirror reflectiveelements).

[0098] The present embodiment provides a rearview mirror assembly with astorage location that is easy to reach and, further, when used does notcause the driver to redirect his or her eyes far, or if at all, from thefront of the vehicle. The use of a mirror location also minimizes eyestrain. In this manner, the unused space behind the electrochromicreflective element mirror assembly is optimally used. Furthermore, sincethe mirror assembly is a known location in the vehicle, drivers canreach up to the mirror assembly without mental distraction since themovement is essentially a reflex action or an automatic movement whichdoes not require much, if any, concentration from the driver. Therefore,the mirror assembly 210 which is centrally mounted provides an ideallocation for storage space and does not obstruct the driver's view.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 17, a fourth embodiment 310 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated.Similar to the previous embodiments, rearview mirror assembly 310includes a mirror casing or housing 312 and a reflective element 314,which is mounted to a windshield button by a support 316. Reference ismade to the first embodiment for details of reflective element 314,optional components on or in housing 312, and suitable material forhousing 312.

[0100] Assembly 310 includes a storage space 322 incorporated intohousing 312, which like the previous embodiment is easily accessible tothe driver or other occupants of the vehicle without much distraction orobstruction to the driver's view. In the illustrated embodiment,reflective element 314 is mounted to a bezel or retaining rim 312 awhich supports reflective element assembly 314 in housing 312. Storagespace 322 is provided by a storage bin 324 which is mounted to bezel 312a to provide a compartment within housing 312. Referring to FIG. 18,bezel 312 a is pivotally mounted to housing 312 by one or more hingeconnections 326 (only one shown). In this manner, bezel 312 a comprisesa pivotal door or hatch that provides access to the inside of casing312. Hinge connections 326 are preferably mounted rearward of bezel 312a so that hinges 326 are hidden from a vehicle occupant's view. Forexample, each hinge 326 preferably comprises a pair of tabs or flanges328, which are formed or welded to the rearward surface of bezel 312 a,and corresponding tabs or flanges 330, which are welded to the lowerwall 332 of housing 312. Tabs 328 and 330 are pivotally coupled togetherby a pin 334 which extends through the respective tabs or flanges topermit bezel 312 a, reflective element 314 and bin 324 to be movedbetween a closed position in which storage bin 324 is contained withinhousing 312 and reflective element 314 is positioned for rearwardviewing and an open position illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18 to provideaccess to storage space 322. Storage space 322, therefore, providesstorage for accessories such as glasses, pens, money, keys, or the likesimilar to the previous embodiment. Storage space 322 can also serve asa waste bin, and in this regard, it is preferable that the bin beremovable for cleaning.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, bin 324 extends substantially thefull length of the interior housing 312; however, it can be appreciatedthat bin 324 may be shaped or shortened to accommodate components withinhousing 312, for example electrical wiring or other components describedin reference to the first embodiment of interior rearview mirrorassembly 10.

[0102] In preferred form, bezel 312 a supports a latch, such as a springbias latch 336 for engaging an engagement structure 338 provided onhousing 312. Engagement structure 338 comprises a U-shaped loop with anengagement surface or opening to receive latch 336. Preferably, latch336 and engagement structure 338 are located at peripheral portion 340of opening 342 of housing 312. Most preferably, latch 336 lies in thesame plane as bezel 312 a when in the locked position so that it doesnot create a discontinuity in the outline of the mirror assembly andpotentially create a distraction to the driver. It should be understood,that bezel 312 a may be biased in its closed position by a spring biasedhinge, thus eliminating the need for a latch. In addition, it can beappreciated that the size and shape of bin 324 may be varied and,furthermore, may be compartmentalized with intermediate walls or ribs,as noted in reference to the previous embodiment.

[0103] A fifth embodiment 410 of the rearview mirror assembly of thepresent invention is illustrated in FIG. 19. Rearview mirror assembly410 is of similar construction to mirror assembly 10 and includes ahousing 412, a support 416 and mounting bracket, for mounting housing412 to a windshield button or the like, a reflective element (notshown), and a bezel (not shown). Mounted to a forward facing side orrear wall 428 of housing 412 is a light assembly 424, similar to lightassembly 124. Therefore, reference is made to assembly 110 for detailson light assembly 424 and other dockable accessories and their preferredmounting arrangements to housing 412.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, housing 412 includes a secondstorage space 426 which is provided on forward facing side or rear wall428 of housing 412. Storage space 426 is defined by a recessed area inback wall 430 which extends from an upper wall 432 of housing 412 to alower wall 434 of housing 412. Back wall 430 is generally planar andextends between two opposed side walls 436 and 438 which extend inwardlyto form, together with back wall 430, recess 439. Projecting outwardlyfrom back wall 430 is another storage space provided by an accessoryattachment member 440, such as a clip for supporting generally flataccessories, such as a toll card, an access card, a parking ticket, anote pad, insurance or registration papers, maps, or the like.Preferably, such a clip positively grips the accessory such as by springtension action or the like onto back wall 430, such that the accessoryis easily insertable and detachable or removable from the accessoryattachment member. In the illustrated embodiment, accessory attachmentmember 440 extends substantially over back wall 430 between side walls436 and 438, but it should be understood that attachment member 440 maybe shortened and extend over a smaller distance while still providingthe same function.

[0105] In preferred form, attachment member 440 comprises a plasticmaterial similar to housing 412. Attachment member 440 may be mounted toback wall 430 either by an adhesive or fasteners or the like. Moreover,attachment member 440 may be welded to back wall 430. Preferably,attachment member 440 is molded together with housing 412. Alternately,attachment member 440 may comprise a metal clip and secured by adhesivesor other fastening means to housing 412.

[0106] Optionally, housing 412 may include a fourth storage space 446provided on rear wall 428 for storing other accessories including, forexample coins, tokens, work pieces, such as pens, pencils, tools, penlights, cassettes, CD's, a pager, or the like. In the illustratedembodiment, fourth storage space 446 comprises an elongated cavity orrecess 448 formed in upper wall 432 of housing 412 which extends betweenend walls 436 and 438 behind a back wall 430. Recess 448 may extend thefull height of back wall 430 or may terminate at some intermediateheight behind back wall 430. It should be understood that storage space446 may include intermediate ribs or intermediate walls to defineseparate compartments within storage space 446, as described inreference to mirror assembly 210.

[0107] A sixth embodiment 510 of the interior rearview mirror assemblyof the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 20. Rearview mirrorassembly 510 includes a mirror casing or housing 512, with a retainingrim or bezel 512 a, and a reflective element 514, similar to theprevious embodiments. Housing 512 may be mounted to the vehiclewindshield, headliner or the like as described in reference to housing12. Bezel 512 a extends around the peripheral portion reflective element514 and optionally includes buttons 513 a, indicators 513 b, or displays513 c which are commonly known in the art. Similar to the previousembodiment, rearview mirror assembly 510 includes a storage space 526for supporting an accessory, such as a writing pad 528, a pager, or thelike thereon. Storage space 526 is formed on a front side 530 of housing512 and is preferably formed by a planar surface 530 a adjacent bezel512 a. Bezel 512 a includes a planar segment 512 b which terminatesalong with reflective element 514 inwardly of peripheral portion 512 eof housing 512. In this manner, pad 528 may lay substantially flush withbezel 512 a to reduce the visual impact of the pad to the driver therebyminimizing the distraction to the driver. Pad 528 may comprise, forexample a sticky note pad, and, therefore, be adhered to planar surface530 a by the adhesive provided on the back of most conventional stickynote pads. Alternately, surface 530 may include Velcro or a clip orother retaining structure to secure pad 528 to surface 530 a, someexamples of which are described in reference to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 19 and 24. Furthermore, housing 512 may include a recess behindplanar surface to receive clips' of a pager or the like.

[0108] Optionally positioned below the chin area of bezel 512 a isanother storage space provided by an accessory attachment member 532,such as a work piece or writing instrument holder, such as a clip. Forexample, such a clip preferably positively grips the accessory, such asthe pen or pencil, typically by spring tension action or the likebetween pliant fingers or arms, such that the accessory, such as a penis readily insertable and detachable/removable from the accessoryattachment member. Attachment member 532 may hold a pencil or pen, oralternately another elongated item such as a pen-type flashlight, a tirepressure gauge, or the like. Attachment member 532 may be secured tohousing 512 by an adhesive, Velcro, or other fastening means.Preferably, attachment member 532 is plastic and is molded with a lowerwall 534 of housing 512. Attachment member 532 lays generally flat andaligns with top surface 530 of housing 512 to minimize the protrusionand, therefore, the distraction to the driver.

[0109] In addition, housing 512 may support one or more map illuminatingor dashboard illuminating lights 540 and 542, for example the lightsdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,245, which is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 21, a seventh embodiment 710 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated. Mirrorassembly 710 includes a mirror casing or housing 712, a retaining rim orbezel 712 a, and a reflective element 714. Reference is made to thefirst embodiment for description of the housing and bezel material, andreflective element 714 and, further, for preferred mounting arrangementsof housing 712 to the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, housing712 includes a storage space 722 which is defined by a slotted recessedportion 724, which extends into housing 712 from end wall 730 of housing712. Recessed portion 724 is formed between opposed walls 726 and 728and extends between upper wall 732 and lower wall 734 of housing 712 todefine a receptacle for an accessory holder 736. Accessory holder 736may support or hold a plurality of accessories, including for example,cards, paper work, such as insurance or registration papers, writingpads, maps, and the like. In the illustrated embodiment, accessoryholder 736 comprises a writing pad holder and includes a molded body 738having upper and lower walls 740 and 742 which align and follow thecontour of housing 712. In most preferred form, walls 740 and 742 areflush with outer surface 732 a, 734 a of upper and lower walls 732 and734, respectively, when holder 736 is inserted into recess 724. Body 738also includes an end wall 744 and a back wall 746, with end wall 744abutting an inner wall 748 of recess 724 when holder 736 is fullyinserted into recess 724. Distal edge 746 a of back wall 746 alsopreferably follows the contour of housing 712 and, most preferably, isgenerally flush with outer surface 730 a of end wall 730 of housing 712when holder 736 is inserted into storage space 722.

[0111] Back wall 746 defines a storage space 750 between end wall 744and upper and lower walls 740 and 742, which is preferably sized to holda writing pad 752, such as a sticky note pad. Pad 752 may be held inplace by the adhesive back, Velcro, or may be held in place by frictionbetween the edges of pad 752 and upper and lower walls 740 and 742. Inaddition, back wall 746 preferably includes a gripping surface 754 topermit tactile identification of holder 736 by the driver of thevehicle, thus minimizing the distraction to the driver. For example,gripping surface 754 may comprise one or more projecting ribs orrecessed grooves. In addition, gripping surfaces 754 provides improvedgripping of body 738. In this manner, body 738 can be grabbed withoutrequiring the operator of the vehicle to take his or her eyes off thefront of the vehicle.

[0112] Holder 736 is held in recess 724 preferably by friction. Forexample, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, side wall 726 includesa plurality of ribs 726 a which project inwardly toward holder 736 toprovide a frictional force between housing 712 and holder 736 (FIG. 21).Ribs 726 a may comprise, for example resilient ribs, such as rubberribs, to provide enhanced friction. Alternately, one or more walls 726and 728 may support a spring for biasing holder against wall 726 or 728for frictionally holding holder 736 in recess 724.

[0113] Housing 712 may optionally include a second storage space definedby an accessory attachment member 756 which is preferably molded toupper housing wall 732. Optionally, attachment member 756 may beseparately formed and adhered to upper wall 732 by an adhesive, Velcroor other fastening means. Attachment member 756 includes resilient armswhich form a clip and provides a convenient location for storing a toolor work piece, such as a pencil or pen, which can be easily retrieved byan occupant of the vehicle for use with pad 752. It should be understoodthat attachment member 756 may be located, for example, below bezel 712a in the chin area of mirror casing 712, or on forward facing side orrear wall 754 of housing 712, or on an end wall of housing 712.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 22, a ninth embodiment 810 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated.Rearview mirror assembly 810 includes a mirror housing 812, a bezel 812a, and a reflective element assembly 814, similar to the previousembodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 812 is supported bya support arm 816 with a modified break-away mounting bracket or mirrormount 817. In the illustrated embodiment, support arm 816 includes apair of ball mounts 824 a and 824 b for extending into a receivingsocket on housing 812 and into a receiving socket in bracket 817.

[0115] As best seen in FIG. 23, break-away mounting bracket 817 includesa body 818 with a generally planar base portion 820 and an upwardlyextending tapered portion 822 having a spherical socket or receptacleinto which ball mount 824 b projects to permit repositioning of interiormirror housing 812 about bracket 817. Body 818 includes a windshieldfacing side 824, which is configured to releasably mount to aconventional windshield mounted button, for example, a button asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,097, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Body 818 further includes a rearwardfacing planar surface 825 which defines a storage surface 826 forstoring an accessory, such as a writing pad 828, such as a sticky notepad. In this manner, when assembly 810 is mounted to a vehiclewindshield or headliner, pad 828 is easily accessible by the driver oroccupant of the vehicle and, furthermore, is located in a known locationthat does not obstruct the driver's view. Preferably, pad 828 is adheredto planar surface 825 by the adhesive provided on most conventionalsticky note pads. Alternately, pad 828 may be mounted by Velcro or mayinclude a stiff backing member, for inserting into a correspondingreceiving structure provided on planar surface 825, as will beunderstood by those skilled in the art.

[0116] In addition, body 818 preferably includes another storage spaceprovided by an accessory attachment member similar to that shown at 440,532 or 756 above, or one or more tubular members formed on bottom wall818 a of body 818 for holding a tool or work piece 830, such as awriting instrument, for example a pen or pencil or the like. Preferably,such attachment members are integrally molded with body 818; however, itcan be appreciated that the attachment member may be adhered to body 818by a suitable adhesive or fasteners. Reference is made to the previousembodiments for examples of suitable attachment members, such as clipsor work piece holders. It should be understood from the foregoing, thatpad 828 and pencil 830 are conveniently placed behind the rearviewmirror housing 812 and thus do not obstruct the view of the driver ofthe vehicle. Furthermore, by positioning pad 828 and pencil 830 on themirror mounting bracket, minimal, if any, distraction is required toaccess or to retrieve the pad or pencil since the pad and pencil arelocated in a known location in the vehicle.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 24, a second embodiment 917 of a mirrormounting bracket or mirror mount is illustrated. Mirror mounting bracket917 may be used in conjunction with any one of the illustratedembodiments of the interior rearview mirror assemblies and further withother interior rearview mirror assemblies. Mirror mounting bracket 917includes a body 918 which supports a ball member 918 a and is adapted toprovide a break-away mount to a conventional windshield mounted button,as described in reference to the previous embodiment. Ball member 918 ais engaged by a support arm (not shown) similar to support arm 16.Extending from a lower end 918 b of body 918 is a storage space providedby a pendent accessory holder 924, such as a note pad holder, a mapholder, or a holder for other generally flat accessories, for example awriting pad, a plastic card, such as a credit card, an access card or atoll card, or the like. Holder 924 includes a body with a planar portion925 and an accessory attachment member 926, such as a clip, formed at anupper end of planar portion 925 which projects downwardly and togetherwith planar surface 925 a of planar portion 925 forms a storage spacefor supporting an accessory.

[0118] Holder 924 may be mounted to telescope from bracket 917. Forexample, holder 924 may be mounted on a telescoping member or jackaction or the like, or move down to an extended position below themirror casing and then retract for storage. When holder 924 is extendeddown, holder 924 may include a foldable support or finger, which can beselectively moved to extend from the windshield facing side of holder924 to touch the window to provide support when holder 924 is in itsextended position. Optionally, holder 924 may be pivotally mounted tothe mirror mounting bracket for reorienting toward the driver or otheroccupants of the vehicle. In addition, accessory attachment member 926can be located elsewhere on the mirror assembly. For example, attachmentmember 926 may be located on the mirror case, such as on the rear wallor forward facing side of the casing. By providing spring-loadedgripping fingers to the pendent accessory, a map can be held below themirror assembly when mounted in the vehicle in a position readilyviewable by the driver.

[0119] Optionally, holder 924 may be integrally molded with body 918 ofmirror mounting bracket 917. However, it can be appreciated that holder924 may be secured to bottom surface 918 a of body 918 by an adhesive orother suitable fastening means. Preferably mounted to a lower end 930 ofplanar portion 925 is a second storage space provided by a secondaccessory attachment member 932, such as a work piece attachment member,for example a clip which positively holds the accessory, for example bytension between two flexible fingers or arms or the like. Attachmentmember 932 may comprise an integrally molded member having a generallyC-shaped cross section similar to attachment member 756 described inreference to FIG. 21 or include a J-shaped body similar to attachmentmember 532 illustrated in FIG. 20. Alternately, attachment member 932may comprise a tubular member with an elongated cylindrical passage forholding a work piece or a pair of cylindrical or ring shaped members,which are aligned to define a pair of spaced apart support surfaces fora work piece, such as a pencil, pen, pressure gauge, pen-light or thelike, such as those shown at 440, 532 or 756 above.

[0120] A tenth embodiment 1010 of an interior rearview mirror assemblyof the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 25. Rearview mirrorassembly 1010 includes a mirror casing or housing 1012, a bezel 1012 aand a reflective element 1014. Reference is made to the first embodimentfor suitable materials for housing 1012 and bezel 1012 a and adescription of reflective element 1014. Bezel 1012 a extends around theperipheral portion of reflective element 1014 and includes an enlargedside area 1016, which provides a location for a power supply connection1018, for example a 12-volt power supply connection. Similar toconventional power supplies provided in dashboards or consoles of mostconventional vehicles, power supply connection 1018 includes acylindrical casing 1020 which extends into assembly 1010 through bezel1016. The contacts for the power supply (not shown) are coupled to thevehicle electrical system by way of wiring which extends through housingand exits housing 1012 preferably through mirror mount (not shown),which may be of similar construction to the ball mount illustrated inFIG. 6 of the first embodiment. In this manner, accessories, such asradar detectors or the like, may be plugged into the interior rearviewmirror assembly 1010 thus reducing the length of wire required for theradar detector to reach most conventional power supplies and furtherreducing the distraction of dangling wires associated with conventionalradar detectors.

[0121] In addition, housing 1012 includes a storage space 1026 in theform of one or more coin holders 1028 a, 1028 b, and 1028 c. Coinholders 1028 a, 1028 b, and 1028 c comprise cylindrical members ofdifferent sizes or diameters which extend into housing 1012 rearward ofreflective element assembly 1014. Each coin holder 1028 a, 1028 b, and1028 c includes an associated release mechanism for releasing coins heldin the respective holder. Preferably, the release mechanism isaccessible from the forward facing side or rear wall 1030 of housing1012, which is easily accessible by the driver of the vehicle. In oneform, each coin holder includes cylindrical members which extend from alower wall 1032 of mirror housing 1012 to an upper wall 1034 so thatcoins may be loaded into their respective coin holders through the upperwall 1032 of housing 1012. In order to maximize the number of coins heldin the respective coin holders, each latch 1029 is preferably located inclose proximity to lower openings 1036 a, 1036 b, 1036 c of eachrespective coin holder. In one form, latches 1029 comprise spring biasedmembers which block openings 1036 a, 1036 b, 1036 c to prevent the coinsheld therein from being released through the bottom openings of eachrespective holder until such a time that the respective latch isreleased from its extended position by the operator of the vehicle.

[0122] In preferred form, housing 1012 includes a second storage space1036 inside housing 1012. Storage space 1036 may support a supply offacial tissue, wipes, a tape dispenser, or a supply of air freshener.The tissue, wipe, tape, or air freshener is removed or ejected fromhousing 1012 through an opening 1038 provided in bottom wall 1032 ofhousing 1012. For example, the supply of air freshener may be providedby an aerosol container or cartridge 1040 which is supported on andmounted to lower wall 1032 by one or more retainers, such as clips,which may be formed on the interior of housing 1012. To minimize noiseand induced vibration, preferably the cartridge of the air freshenersupply is rigidly mounted to housing wall 1032. Also, optionallyprovided on bottom wall 1032 is an actuator 1042, such as a button,which releases the air freshener from container 1040 through opening1038.

[0123] Moreover, a vehicle cabin air monitor can be incorporated intomirror assembly 10 such as within housing 1012, that includes reflectiveelement 1014, or in a pod or housing that attaches to the mirror mount.Reference is made to copending application Ser. No. 09/244,726, which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety, for an example of asuitable pod. For example, levels of carbon monoxide may be monitored bysuch air monitors provided at the mirror location. Preferably, the airmonitor includes an intake, preferably a fan assisted intake thatsamples the air within the cabin. In preferred form, when the vehiclelevel of carbon monoxide exceeds a threshold level, the monitor takesappropriate action, for example sounding an alarm, shutting off theengine, and/or opening windows. Such an air monitoring system ispreferably used with a remote ignition system such as is commonly usedin cold climates when the engine is started up remotely. Such a vehicleair monitoring system protects against the build up of carbon monoxidewithin the vehicle cabin.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the numeral 1110 generallydesignates a second embodiment of the mirror assembly illustrated inFIGS. 1-8. Mirror assembly 1110 includes a housing or casing 1112, areflective element 1114, and a storage space 1120. Storage space 1120comprises a cavity formed in casing 1112 for housing an accessory 1124.Similar to accessory 24, accessory 1124 may comprise a vanity mirror ora display device, including a video display device as described inreference to the first embodiment. For further details of casing 1112,reflective element 1114, and other electrical and electronic deviceswhich may be housed in casing 1112, reference is made to assembly 10.

[0125] Accessory 1124 is mounted within cavity 1120 of mirror housing1112 for movement between a retracted position and an extended position,as shown in FIG. 26. Preferably, when in its retracted position,accessory 1124 is substantially contained in cavity 1120 and, mostpreferably, such that accessory 1124 is completely contained in cavity1120 so that accessory 1124 does not project from casing 1112 andpotentially creates a distraction to the driver of the vehicle.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 27, accessory 1124 is mounted interiorly ofcasing 1112 in cavity 1120 by a pivot member 1126. Pivot member 1126permits accessory 1124 to be moved between its retracted position withincasing 1112 and its extended position by pivoting about a pivot axis1126 a. In the illustrated embodiment, pivot member 1126 includes anelongate body 1132 with opposed support pins 1134 which are pivotallymounted in support members 1136, such as flanges, provided in casing1112. Preferably, support members 1136 comprise flanges which projectdownwardly from upper wall 1112 a of casing 1112 and which space supportpins 1134 inwardly from rear wall 1138 so as to permit accessory 1124 topivot to its retracted position within casing 1112 between back wall1138 and reflective element 1114. It should be understood, that supportmembers 1136 may extend to rear wall or may include reinforcing ribs orwebs which extend to rear wall 1138 to provide stiffness to supportmembers 1136.

[0127] Accessory 1124 is pivotally mounted to pivot member 1126 about apivot axis 1128 a to permit repositioning of accessory 1124 about agenerally vertical axis when accessory 1124 is moved to its extendedposition such as illustrated in FIG. 26. In this manner, once accessory1124 is moved or pivoted to its extended position outside casing 1112,the position of accessory 1124 may be easily adjusted by an occupant ofthe vehicle, for example the driver or a passenger of the vehicle.

[0128] As noted above and described in reference to the first embodimentof the interior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention,accessory 1124 may comprise a vanity mirror or may comprise a displaydevice. In preferred form, accessory 1124 includes a housing 1128 inwhich an element 1130, such as a reflective element or display element,is supported. Housing 1128 may include a ball mount to pivotally mounthousing 1128 to pivot member 1126 or may include a socket to receive aball mount provided on pivot member 1126 to permit accessory 1124 totilt about the horizontal axis as well. Alternately, housing 1128 may bepivotally mounted by a pivot pin which generally permits rotation ofhousing 1128 and element 1130 only about axis 1128 a.

[0129] As best understood from FIG. 27, when accessory 1124 is pivotedon pivot member 1126 about pivot access 1126 a and generally alignedwith pivot member 1126 along axis 1126 a, accessory 1124 can then beretracted into cavity 1120 behind reflective element 1114.

[0130] A third embodiment 1210 of the interior rearview mirror assemblyillustrated in FIGS. 1-8 is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. Mirror assembly1210 includes a mirror casing 1212, a reflective element 1214, which issupported in casing 1212, and a storage space 1222. Housed in storagespace 1222, is a pendent accessory 1224. As described in reference toaccessory 24, accessory 1224 may comprise a vanity mirror or a displaydevice. For further details of description of housing 1212, reflectiveelement 1214, and components optionally supported in casing 1212, andvariation of accessory 1124 reference is made to assembly 10.

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, storage space 1222 comprises acavity 1222 a which extends into casing 1112 through an opening formedor provided in bottom wall 1112 a. Cavity 1222 a is preferably formed bymolding and extends behind reflective element 1114 into casing 1112.Accessory 1224 is pivotally mounted in cavity 1222 a by a pivot member1226 as will be more fully described below, so that accessory 1224 canbe moved between an extended position for viewing by an occupant of thevehicle (shown in FIG. 23) or a retracted or storage position withinstorage space 1222. Preferably, when in its storage position, accessory1224 is substantially contained within storage space 1222 and, mostpreferably, completely contained and retracted into storage space 1222.

[0132] Accessory 1224 includes a housing 1228 and an element 1230, suchas a reflective element or a display element. Reference is made toelement 30 for examples and further description of element 1230.Preferably, housing 1228 includes a body 1228 a with a recessed centralportion or recessed wall 1234 which defines a perimeter wall 1234 a.Element 1230 is supported in recessed portion 1234 and preferablymounted for pivotal movement in recessed portion 1234 so that theorientation of element 1230 can be adjusted by an occupant of thevehicle. Preferably, element 1230 is mounted to permit manual adjustmentof element 1230; however, it should be understood that remote adjustmentcan be provided by an actuator, such as an electronic actuator, whichare well known in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, recessedportion 1234 includes a ball mount 1236 which projects outwardly and onwhich element 1230 is mounted by a socket member which is provided onrear surface 1230 a of element 1230. The ball and socket arrangementprovides for pivotal movement of element 1230 about horizontal andvertical axes. Preferably, when mounted on ball mount 1236, element 1230generally lies in the same plane as upper surface 1234 b of perimeterwall 1234 a when in a non-tilted position so that element 1230 will notproject outwardly from housing 1228 so that housing 1228 can be quicklyand easily pivoted to its retracted position within storage space 1222.As would be understood by those skilled in the art, element 1230 mayalternately include a ball mount mounted to its rear surface 1230 a withrecessed portion 1234 having a socket member for receiving the ballmount of element 1230.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 29, at least lower edge 1238 a and side edge1238 b of housing 1228 preferably follow the contours of casing 1212 sothat when retracted, housing 1228 generally follows the contour ofcasing 1212. Moreover, housing 1228 is preferably the same size as theopening to cavity 1222 sot that when retracted, housing 1228 appears tobe a unitary part of the mirror.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 29, housing 1228 supports pivot member 1226 andpreferably includes a stop 1232 which is spaced from pivot member 1226and limits rotation of housing 1228 about pivot member 1226 by engagingbottom wall 1212 a of casing 1212 (as shown in FIG. 28). In preferredform, as previously noted, housing 1228 is commensurate in size with theopening or mouth of cavity 1222 a so that when retracted, the lowersurface 1224 a of accessory 1224 follows casing 1212 and forms a unitarypart of mirror assembly 1210. Pivot member 1226 is mounted in case 1212on a support member, such as a support flange 1240, which is formed orotherwise provided on bottom wall 1212 a of casing 1212. Accessory 1224is mounted for pivotal movement on support member 1248 by pivot member1226 which is preferably journaled in member 1240. In preferred form,when fully retracted into storage space 1222, accessory 1224 does notprovide any obstruction to the driver's view through the frontwindshield of the vehicle; instead, accessory 1224 is preferablysubstantially hidden from view when retracted. When extended from casing1212, accessory 1224 projects downwardly from bottom wall 1212 a toprovide, for example a vanity mirror or a display member including avideo display, as previously noted with the orientation of element 1230within housing 1228 being preferably manually adjustable by an occupantof the vehicle, including the driver.

[0135] As described in reference to the previous embodiments, element1230 may comprise a reflective element, including a flat reflector, areflector having a compound curvature, an aspheric or convex mirrorreflector, or may comprise a display screen for displaying information,such as vehicle status, a rearview vision system, or a baby mindersystem as previously described. In addition, housing 1228 may support aplurality of light sources, such as incandescent light sources ornon-incandescent light sources, such as LEDs, around element 1220 toprovide a vanity mirror.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 30, a second embodiment 1310 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly illustrated in FIGS. 15, 15A, and 16 is shown.Mirror assembly 1310 includes a housing or casing 1312, a reflectiveelement 1314, and support arm 1316, and mounting bracket 1317. It shouldbe understood that other support arms and mounting arrangements may beused to mount assembly 1310 onto a vehicle headliner or windshield.Reference is made to assembly 210 for further description of casing1312, reflective element 1314, support arm 1316, and bracket 1317.Similar to casing 212, upper wall 1312 a of casing 1312 includes astorage space 1322 for supporting an accessory 1324. In the illustratedembodiment, accessory 1324 comprises a dispensing accessory fordispensing wipes, including “wet wipes” or glass cleaner wipes or thelike, or tissues so that an occupant of the vehicle can easily andquickly retrieve a wipe or tissue T. Storage space 1322 may be providedby a recess, similar to recess 224, and by molding a recess into upperwall 1312 a of casing 1312 or may be provided by an insert which isinserted into upper wall 1312 a through an opening, similar to opening222 a.

[0137] Dispensing accessory 1324 includes a container 1326 with adispensing opening 1328 through which a wipe or tissue T may bedispensed for use by an occupant of the vehicle. Housing 1326 isremovably supported in storage space 1322 and may be releasably retainedin storage space 1322 by a friction fit, snap couplers or may be held inplace by one or more spring loaded latches 1330. As would be understoodby those skilled in the art, spring loaded latches 1330 may frictionallyengage an inner surface 1322 a of storage space 1322 or may engage acorresponding recess provided on inner surface 1322 a. In this manner,tissue or wipe dispensing accessory 1324 may be quickly and easilyremoved from storage space 1322 for refill or replacement. Optionally,additional storage space may be provided for discarded tissues or wipes.For example, storage space 1322 may be segregated into two storagespaces—one for holding the dispensing accessory, and the other forholding the discarded tissues, wipes, or other trash. Alternately, adisposal bin may be provided elsewhere in the vehicle.

[0138] It should be understood from the foregoing, that interiorrearview mirror assembly 1310 provides a storage space 1322 which may beused to support a wide variety of accessories therein beside tissuedispenser 1324. Optionally, as previously noted, tissue dispensingassembly 1324 may be removed such that storage space 1322 may be usedfor storing other accessories, as described in reference to assembly210.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 31, a second embodiment 1410 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly illustrated in FIGS. 9-14 is shown. Mirrorassembly 1410 includes a mirror housing or casing 1412, a reflectiveelement 1414, and a storage space 1422 for storing a dockable accessory1424, similar to assembly 110. As previously described, dockableaccessory 1424 may comprise a light assembly (as shown), atelecommunication device, such as a phone or a pager, or other hand heldelectrical or electronic devices or the like. For further details ofhousing 1412, dockable accessory 1424, and reflective element 1414general reference is made to assembly 110.

[0140] In the illustrated embodiment, dockable accessory 1424 includes ahousing 1426 which includes a pair of spring loaded latches 1428 forengaging elongate recesses 1430 provided in back wall 1412 a of casing1412 in storage space 1422. Housing 1426 preferably supports a pair oflatch releases 1432 which move latches 1428 between an insertionposition and an engagement position. When moved to their insertionposition, which is typically achieved when latch releases 1432 arecompressed, latches 1428 can then be aligned for insertion into elongaterecesses 1430. When latch releases 1432 are released, latches 1428engage with casing 1412 in recessed 1430, as will be understood by thoseskilled in the art. Similar to the previous embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 9-14, housing 1412 preferably supports a pair of contacts 1432which permit accessory 1424 to couple to either a recharging unit inmirror assembly 1410 or located elsewhere in the vehicle for rechargingof dockable accessory 1424, as previously described in reference toassembly 110. Optionally, housing 1426 may support a pair of guidemembers 1444 which engage corresponding elongated recesses or slots 1446provided in side wall 1448 of storage space 1422. In this manner, guidemembers 1444 guide dockable assembly 1424 into the correct position ontostorage space 1422. Therefore, in order to dock accessory 1424 ontostorage space 1422, latch releases 1432 must be compressed so that latchmembers 1428 are aligned for placement into elongated recesses 1430.When guide members 1444 properly aligned with recesses 1446, and latches1428 are inserted into elongated recesses 1430, latch releases 1432 maybe then released so that dockable accessory 1424 is releasably mountedto casing 1412.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 32, a third embodiment 1510 of the interiorrearview mirror assembly illustrated in FIGS. 9-14 is shown. Mirrorassembly 1510 includes a mirror casing 1512, a reflective element 1514,and a storage space 1522, on which a dockable accessory 1524 is mountedfor storage and later retrieval by an occupant of the vehicle, such asthe driver. For further details of housing 1512, reflective element1514, and dockable accessory 1524, reference is made to mirror assembly110.

[0142] In the illustrated embodiment, storage space 1522 is formed bygenerally planar recessed wall 1526 provided on back wall 1512 a ofmirror case 1512 and a cavity 1528 which is formed in back wall 1512 a.As noted in reference to accessory 24, accessory 1524 may comprise alight assembly, a telecommunications device, such as a telephone orpager or the like. Accessory 1524 includes a housing 1530 with a flangeportion 1532. Flange 1532 is commensurate in size with cavity 1528 sothat when flange 1532 is inserted into cavity 1528, accessory 1524 isheld in storage space 1522 by the friction between flange 1532 and wall1528 a which defines cavity 1528 and wall 1526. Housing 1530 supports acover or lens 1534 and includes at least one gripping surface 1536,similar to the dockable accessory described in reference to embodiment110. Optionally mounted to flange 1532 are a pair of contacts 1538 whichengage or make contact with a corresponding pair of contacts provided oncavity wall 1528 a in cavity 1528. Thus, when accessory 1524 is dockedonto storage space 1522, accessory 1524 is held in place by frictionbetween flange 1532 and wall 1528 a and is coupled to a rechargerlocated either in casing 1512 or elsewhere in the vehicle to rechargebatteries supported within housing 1530 of accessory 1524, as describedin greater detail in reference to accessory 124.

[0143] Similar to the previous embodiments, housing 1530 and cover 1534are preferably contoured to follow contour of casing 1512 such that whendocked, accessory 1524 forms a unitary unit with casing 1512. It shouldbe understood, that flange 1532 may be provided with releasablecouplers, as snap fit flanges or the like which provide a positiveengagement between flange 1532 and wall 1528 a or wall 1526 as will beunderstood by those skilled in the art. In addition, flange 1532 maysupport releasable latches similar to latches 1428 described inreference to the previous embodiment.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 33, the numeral 1610 generally designates afourth embodiment of the interior rearview mirror assembly illustratedin FIGS. 9-14. Mirror assembly 1610 includes a mirror housing or casing1612, reflective element 1614, and a storage space 1622 for storing adockable accessory 1624, similar to the previous embodiment. Aspreviously described, dockable accessory 1624 may comprise a lightassembly (shown), a telecommunications device, such as a phone or apager or other hand held electrical or electronic devices. For furtherdetails of housing 1612, reflective element 1614 and accessory 1624,general reference is made to assembly 110.

[0145] Storage space 1622 is formed by a generally planar wall 1626formed on back wall 1612 a of casing 1612 and a generally open cavity1628 which is formed in back wall 1612 a and has a generally U-shapedconfiguration. Cavity 1628 is defined between planar wall 1626 and agenerally U-shaped retaining wall 1628 a which extends over planar wall1626. Accessory 1624 includes a housing 1630, which supports a cover orlens 1632, and a flange 1634 commensurate in shape with cavity 1628 sothat when accessory 1624 is docked in storage space 1622, flange 1634extends into cavity 1628 and is held in place by U-shaped wall 1628 a.Preferably, accessory 1624 is held in storage space 1622 by frictionallyengagement between flange 1634 and wall 1628 a of cavity 1628 and planarwall 1626.

[0146] In order to follow the contours of casing 1612, housing 1630preferably includes a projecting lip 1636 which extends over flange 1634and is commensurate in shape with opening 1628 b of cavity 1628 suchthat when accessory 1624 is docked into storage space 1622, housing 1620abuts casing 1612 and generally follows the contours of casing 1612. Inthis manner, when docked, accessory 1624 forms a generally unitaryassembly with casing 1612.

[0147] Optionally, housing 1630 or flange 1636 may support one or morelatches for positively engaging casing 1612, as previously described. Inpreferred form, casing 1612 supports a pair of contacts 1638 in storagespace 1622 which electrically couple and make contact with correspondingcontacts provided on accessory 1624 so that accessory 1624 may berecharged while docked in storage space 1622, as previously described.

[0148] The present invention provides a cavity or pocket created in themirror housing or case such as by molding. This cavity or pocketprovides a storage compartment for accessories, such as sunglasses,coins, parking tokens, a tape dispenser, tissue or wipe dispensers, andthe like. Thus, for example, the driver on exiting the vehicle can takeoff a pair of sunglasses and readily and conveniently store them byplacing them into the pocket storage compartment in the interior mirrorcasing, where the accessory is supported or stored. By locating thestorage space on or in the interior mirror assembly, a high mountedstorage location is provided which is away from children or pets in thecar and further, may also provide a storage location that is not readilyvisible from outside the vehicle, therefore, enhancing the vehiclesecurity. Also, the present invention provides storage space on orwithin the mirror assembly that may be open storage insofar that no doorhatch or latch is provided or required, an example of which isillustrated in FIGS. 9-16 and 19-24, or may be closed storage,accessible such as by a door, hatch, latch, slider, telescoping supportor the like, such as illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 and 17-18. Further,storage space is provided on the exterior of the mirror casing (oroptionally, elsewhere on the rearview mirror assembly such as on themirror support arm or on the mirror mount) for objects such as writinginstruments such as pens, pencils and the like. The driver or passengercan releasably attach, for example, a pencil to the clip provided on themirror casing. This provides a location in the vehicle interior cabinwhere the driver or passengers can readily find a pencil or the like.

[0149] As would be understood by those skilled in the art, modificationscan be made to the various components of the several embodimentsdescribed above without departure from the spirit of the presentinvention. For example, the mirror casing may include an elongatedrecess extending into the casing which provides storage space for atool, such as a pressure gauge or screw driver or pocket knife, or workpiece, such as a writing instrument or light pen. The storage space maycomprise an open storage space in which articles are quickly insertableto or retractable from the storage space or a closed storage space, suchas described in reference to mirror assembly 310, which is accessedthrough a door or hatch. The storage space may comprise an attachmentmember such as a clip for releasably retaining a writing instrument suchas a pen, or the like, to the rearview mirror assembly such as to themirror case, to the mirror bracket/mount or to the mirror support arm.The present invention provides one or more storage spaces for storingarticles or accessories and is applicable to a wide variety of interiorrearview mirrors including electrically operated compass mirrors such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,253,109, electrically operated interiorrearview mirrors incorporating map reading lights such as disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 4,646,210; 4,733,336; 4,807,096; and 5,178,448; andelectrically operated automatically dimming mirrors such as described inU.S. Pat. Nos. 4,793,690; 4,799,768; 4,886,960; and 5,193,029, mirrorassemblies incorporating GPS such as disclosed in patent applicationSer. No. 08/569,851, filed Dec. 8, 1995, by Roger L. Veldman and DesmondO'Farrell for “A VEHICLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM NAVIGATIONAL AID”;mirrors including head light controls, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/621,863, filed Mar. 25, 1996, entitled “VEHICLEHEADLIGHT CONTROL USING IMAGING SENSOR”; mirrors incorporating displays,such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filedFeb. 5, 1999, entitled “REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY INCORPORATING VEHICLEINFORMATION DISPLAY” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240 for “DISPLAY FORAUTOMATIC REARVIEW MIRROR”; mirrors incorporating blind spot detectionsystems, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240; U.S. Pat. No.5,576,687; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/799,735, entitled“VEHICLE BLIND SPOT DETECTION AND DISPLAY SYSTEM”, filed Feb. 12, 1997;and mirrors incorporating remote frame action systems, such as disclosedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/057,428, filed Apr. 8, 1998, for“A VEHICLE MOUNTED REMOTE TRANSACTION INTERFACE SYSTEM”; and U.S. Pat.No. 5,798,575; all commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation, HollandMich. and the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by referencein their entireties.

[0150] Changes and modifications in the specifically describedembodiments can be carried out without departing from the principles ofthe invention, which is intended to be limited only by the scope of theappended claims, as interpreted according to the principles of patentlaw.

We claim:
 1. An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle, saidmirror assembly comprising: a casing; a reflective element positioned insaid casing; and said casing including a storage space, said storagespace providing storage capacity for at least one accessory and forstoring the accessory in a location accessible by an occupant of thevehicle whereby the accessory can be inserted into or removed from saidstorage space for use by an occupant of the vehicle.
 2. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein said reflectiveelement comprises a variable reflectance reflective element.
 3. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 2, wherein saidreflective element comprises an electro-optic reflective element.
 4. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly of claim 3, wherein said electro-opticreflective element comprises an electrochromic reflective element. 5.The interior rearview mirror assembly of claim 4, wherein saidelectrochromic reflective element comprises an electrochemichromicreflective element.
 6. The interior rearview mirror assembly accordingto claim 1, wherein said storage space is defined by a recessed portionprovided on said casing.
 7. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 6, said casing including an upper wall, and saidrecessed portion being provided in said upper wall.
 8. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 7, wherein said recessedportion comprises an elongated recess for supporting at least one of apair of glasses, a writing instrument, and money.
 9. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 6, wherein said recessedportion extends into said casing behind said reflective element.
 10. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 9, wherein saidrecessed portion is defined by an elongated body.
 11. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 10, wherein said bodyincludes reinforcing ribs, said reinforcing ribs stiffening said insertand further defining segregated storage sub-spaces within said storagespace.
 12. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1,further comprising a pendent accessory, said casing including a bottomwall, said recessed portion extending into said bottom wall and forminga cavity, said pendent accessory being stored in said cavity.
 13. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 12, wherein saidpendent accessory includes a reflective element.
 14. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 13, wherein said pendentaccessory further includes a housing, said housing supporting saidreflective element.
 15. The-interior rearview mirror assembly accordingto claim 14, wherein said housing is supported from said mirror assemblyby a support, said housing being pivotally mounted to said support topermit repositioning of said reflective element for viewing by anoccupant of the vehicle.
 16. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 12, wherein said pendent accessory includes a displayelement, said display element displaying information for an occupant ofthe vehicle.
 17. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 16, wherein said pendent accessory further includes a housing,said housing supporting said display element.
 18. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 17, wherein said housing is supportedfrom said mirror assembly by a support, said housing being pivotallymounted to said support to permit repositioning of said display elementabout said support for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle.
 19. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 17, wherein saidpendent accessory further includes a circuit board supported in saidhousing, said circuit board supporting electronics for displayinginformation on said display element.
 20. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 12, wherein said pendent accessory isadapted for extension and retraction into said cavity.
 21. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 20, wherein said pendentaccessory includes a housing, said housing being mounted for movementbetween an extended position from said casing and a retracted positioninto said casing, said housing is substantially housed within saidcavity when said housing is moved to its retracted position within saidcasing.
 22. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 21,wherein said housing has an outer surface generally following contoursof said casing when said pendent accessory is moved to its retractedposition within said casing.
 23. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 12, wherein said housing is formed from a material atleast similar to material forming said casing.
 24. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein said casing comprises aplastic casing.
 25. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 1, wherein said casing comprises an engineering polymer material.26. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, whereinsaid storage space on said casing includes an accessory attachmentmember for releasably holding the accessory.
 27. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 26, wherein said attachment memberincludes resilient arms for releasably holding a work piece.
 28. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 26, wherein saidattachment member comprises a first attachment member, said casingincluding a second attachment member for releasably holding a workpiece.
 29. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 26,wherein said first attachment member comprises a spring clip.
 30. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 26, wherein saidattachment member is integrally molded with said casing.
 31. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 26, wherein saidcasing includes a bottom wall, said attachment member being provided atsaid bottom wall below said reflective element.
 32. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 26, wherein said casingincludes a rearward facing opening and a forward facing side, saidreflective element being supported in said rearward facing opening, andsaid attachment member being provided on said forward facing side. 33.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein saidcasing includes at least one recessed portion formed therein definingsaid storage space for storing the accessory.
 34. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a dockableassembly.
 35. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim34, wherein said dockable assembly is supported in said storage spaceand is removably mounted to said casing whereby said dockable assemblycan be docked in said storage space and an occupant of the vehicle canremove said dockable assembly from said storage space and use saiddockable assembly independently of said rearview mirror assembly. 36.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 34, whereinsaid dockable assembly comprises a light assembly.
 37. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 35, wherein said lightassembly includes a housing and a lens, at least one of said lens andsaid housing being contoured to follow contours of said casing wherebysaid light assembly forms a unitary part of said casing of said mirrorassembly when said light assembly is mounted in said recessed portion.38. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 37, whereinsaid housing and said lens are contoured to follow said contours of saidcasing.
 39. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 37,wherein said casing includes a pair of recessed portions formed onopposed ends of said casing, each of said recessed portion storing alight assembly.
 40. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 37, wherein said housing includes at least one gripping surface.41. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 40, whereinsaid gripping surface comprises a recess formed in said housing.
 42. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 34, wherein saidcasing includes a forward facing side, and said forward facing sideincludes said recessed portion.
 43. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 33, wherein said recessed portion includesan accessory attachment member for securing the accessory to saidcasing.
 44. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1,wherein said casing includes an upper wall, a lower wall and opposed endwalls, said casing including a recess extending into one of said endwalls and thereby defining said storage space.
 45. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 44, said recess further extendingbetween said upper and lower walls to define a slotted recess.
 46. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 44, furthercomprising an accessory holder, said holder being slidably positioned inand releasably held in said recess, and said holder for holding theaccessory thereon.
 47. The interior rearview mirror assembly accordingto claim 46, wherein said holder includes a body, said body having upperand lower walls, an end wall and a back wall, said end wall insertinginto said recess when said holder is positioned in said recess, and atleast one of said upper wall, said lower wall and an edge of said backwall being aligned to follow contours of said casing when said holder ispositioned in said recess.
 48. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 47, wherein said recess includes an end wall spacedinwardly of said casing end wall, said end wall of said holder abuttingsaid end wall of said recess when said holder is positioned in saidrecess.
 49. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 47,wherein each of said upper wall, said lower wall, and said edge of saidholder at least generally follow said contours of said casing when saidholder is positioned in said recess.
 50. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 46, wherein said recess is defined betweenopposed walls, one of said walls of said recess including at least onefriction enhancing member, said friction enhancing member frictionallyengaging said holder when said holder is inserted into said recess. 51.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 50, whereinsaid friction enhancing member comprises a resilient member.
 52. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 51, wherein saidresilient member comprises a resilient rib.
 53. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 46, wherein said holder includes atleast one gripping surface, said gripping surface permitting a driver ofthe vehicle to grasp said holder so that said holder can be removed fromsaid recess and reinserted into said recess after removal with minimaldistraction to the driver.
 54. An interior rearview mirror assembly fora vehicle, said mirror assembly comprising: a reflective element; acasing, said reflective element being located in said casing; and saidcasing including a casing wall, said casing wall having a recess formedtherein, said recess defining a storage space for storing one or moreaccessories wherein the accessory is accessible and insertable andremovable from said casing by an occupant of the vehicle for use thereofindependent of the mirror assembly.
 55. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 54, wherein said recess includes a planarmounting surface for supporting the accessory.
 56. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 55, wherein said recess includes acoupler for mounting the accessory to said planar surface of saidcasing.
 57. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 54,wherein said casing wall includes a forward facing side, and said recessbeing provided in said forward facing side.
 58. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 54, wherein said casing wall includesa rearward facing side, said recess provided in said rearward facingside.
 59. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 54,wherein said recess includes a second recess defining a second storagespace for supporting other accessories.
 60. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 59, wherein said second storage spacecomprises an accessory attachment member for releasably holding anaccessory.
 61. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim60, wherein said accessory attachment member is adapted for holding awork piece.
 62. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim54, wherein casing wall includes an end wall, said recess extending intosaid end wall and defining a cavity therein, said cavity supporting anaccessory holder therein.
 63. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 54, wherein casing wall includes a bottom wall, saidrecess extending into said bottom wall and defining a cavity therein, apendent accessory being stored in said cavity and being positionablebetween an extended position within said cavity and extended positionfor viewing by an occupant of the vehicle.
 64. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 54, further comprising a light modulesupported in said casing for illuminating a portion of the vehicleinterior.
 65. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim54, said casing including a bottom wall, an accessory attachment memberbeing provided at said bottom wall.
 66. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 54, said casing including a top wall, anaccessory attachment member being provided at said top wall.
 67. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 54, said recessextending into said cavity for supporting coins therein, said recessincluding a dispensing opening for dispensing one or more coinstherefrom.
 68. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim67, said casing including a plurality of recesses, each respectiverecess including a latch for releasing one or more coins from saiddispensing opening of said respective recess.
 69. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 68, said latches being actuatablefrom a forward facing side of said casing.
 70. The interior rearviewmirror assembly according to claim 67, said casing defining a secondstorage space in said cavity for holding an air freshener dispenser, andsaid casing wall including an opening for dispensing the air freshenertherethrough.
 71. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 54, wherein said reflective element comprises a variablereflectance reflective element.
 72. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 54, further comprising an insert, saidinsert providing said storage space.
 73. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 72, wherein said insert comprises a bin,said casing wall including an opening and said bin being inserted intosaid casing in said opening.
 74. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 73, wherein said bin is removably mounted to saidcasing in said opening.
 75. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 54, wherein said recess is formed by molding saidrecess into said casing wall.
 76. An interior rearview mirror assemblyfor vehicles, said mirror assembly comprising: a reflective element; acasing, said reflective element located in said housing; and a supportfor mounting said casing to a windshield, said support including amounting bracket, one of said casing and said mounting bracket includinga storage space for supporting at least one accessory thereby.
 77. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 76, wherein saidreflective element comprises a variable reflectance reflective element.78. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 77, whereinsaid reflective element comprises an electro-optic reflective element.79. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 77, whereinsaid bracket includes a planar mounting surface for supporting theaccessory thereon.
 80. The interior rearview mirror assembly accordingto claim 77, wherein said bracket includes a planar body having saidplanar mounting surface.
 81. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 77, wherein said bracket includes a planar bodymounted thereto, said planar body having said planar mounting surface.82. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 79, whereinsaid bracket further includes an accessory attachment member for holdinga work piece.
 83. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 82, wherein said accessory attachment member includes a C-shapedcross-section for holding a cylindrical work piece.
 84. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 82, wherein said bracketincludes a bottom edge, said attachment member being positioned at saidbottom edge.
 85. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 82, wherein said attachment member comprises a clip.
 86. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 76, wherein saidmounting bracket comprises a break-away mounting break.
 87. An interiorrearview mirror assembly for a vehicle, said mirror assembly comprising:a reflective element; a casing having a casing wall, said reflectiveelement being located in said casing, said casing wall defining arearward facing opening and a cavity therein; and said casing includinga storage space in said cavity, said storage space for providing storagefor at least one accessory and for storing the accessory in a locationeasily accessible by an occupant of the vehicle whereby the accessorycan be inserted in or removed from said storage space for use by anoccupant of the vehicle independent of said mirror assembly.
 88. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 87, wherein saidreflective element is supported in said casing by a retaining rim. 89.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 87, whereinsaid storage space is defined by a bin.
 90. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 89, wherein said bin comprises atrough-shaped bin.
 91. The interior rearview mirror assembly accordingto claim 89, wherein said bin comprises a plastic bin.
 92. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 88, wherein said reflectiveelement is supported on said retaining rim, said retaining rim beingpivotally mounted to said casing wall at said forward facing openingwhereby said retaining rim is movable between a closed position whereinsaid reflective element is in a rearward viewing position and an openposition wherein said cavity and said storage space is accessiblethrough said rearward facing opening.
 93. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 92, further comprising a bin, said bin beingsupported on said retaining rim and providing said storage space. 94.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 93, whereinsaid bin comprises a trough shaped bin for supporting at least oneaccessory selected from the group consisting of a pair of glasses, awriting instrument, and money.
 95. The interior rearview mirror assemblyaccording to claim 93, wherein said bin includes ribs, said ribsdefining segregated storage sub-spaces within said storage space. 96.The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 92, whereinsaid bezel includes a latch for releasably locking said bezel in saidclosed position.
 97. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 87, wherein said reflective element comprises an electro-opticreflective element.
 98. The interior rearview mirror assembly of claim97, wherein said electro-optic reflective element comprises anelectrochromic reflective element.
 99. The interior rearview mirrorassembly of claim 98, wherein said electrochromic reflective elementcomprises an electrochemichromic reflective element.
 100. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 87, wherein said casingcomprises a fiber reinforced nylon plastic casing.
 101. The interiorrearview mirror according to claim 87, wherein said casing comprises anengineering polymer material.
 102. An interior rearview mirror assemblyfor a vehicle, said mirror assembly comprising: a casing; a reflectiveelement positioned in said casing; and said casing including a storagespace, said storage space providing storage capacity for at least oneaccessory and for storing the accessory in a location accessible by anoccupant of the vehicle, whereby the accessory can be stored in saidstorage space or moved from said storage space for use by an occupant ofthe vehicle.
 103. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 102, wherein said storage space comprises an accessory attachmentmember.
 104. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim103, wherein said accessory attachment member includes at least oneresilient arm for holding the accessory on said casing.
 105. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 103, wherein saidaccessory attachment member comprises a pair of resilient arms, saidresilient arms for gripping at least a portion of the accessorytherebetween.
 106. The interior rearview mirror assembly according toclaim 105, wherein said resilient arms have a C-shaped cross section.107. The interior rearview mirror assembly according to claim 105,wherein said casing includes a casing wall, said accessory attachmentmember being integrally molded with said casing wall.
 108. The interiorrearview mirror assembly according to claim 105, wherein said casingincluding a bottom wall, said accessory attachment member beingproviding at said bottom wall.
 109. The interior rearview mirrorassembly according to claim 105, wherein said casing wall includes aforward facing side, said accessory attachment member being provided atsaid forward facing side.